My friend Robin Sharma, author of The Leader Who Had No Title, recently tweeted a quote (based on a passage by Lao Tse’s, Tao Te Ching), that I believe to be an extremely cool and profound truth:
“The best leaders of all, the people know not they exist. They turn to each other and say, ‘We did it ourselves.'”
Yes, the best ones; the most effective ones; while, sure, you know they are there, and they will step in when needed – they become more a part of the scenery; not “The Thing” itself.
And, I believe it’s because they realize that – when it comes right down to it – IT isn’t about them; it’s about those they lead.
Please understand; invisible, in this case, doesn’t mean “unseen.” It doesn’t mean they are aloof, unavailable or unapproachable. In fact, they tend to be the best counselors, mentors, coaches and sources of encouragement.
It simply means (at least, how I understand it), that they focus on creating an environment where others can succeed, grow and feel good about themselves. And, they do all this without any need to take the credit.
Yes, the people know not that the leader even exists. Yet, they love, respect and admire that leader. In fact, they credit these “invisible leaders” with being the greatest leaders. Funny how that works!
Who are your favorite leaders that embody the quote Robin cited?
* Note from me (who else would it be from?): 😉 I’m heading out on an early flight to Palm Springs, California for a couple of corporate speaking engagements over the next three days. If you comment, I might be a bit delayed in my response. Please forgive me, and know that I will reply.
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This post of yours Bob touches my very core, for when I look at all the amazing people in my life that have inspired and helped me along my path, I clearly remember those few individuals that stand out as “invisible leaders”. They’ve usually shown up in my very darkest of hours to light the way with their gentle words of encouragement when I was afraid of taking the next step. They led me by being shining examples to follow and they have always ‘walked their talk’. How truly blessed and privileged I am to have had these incredible teachers, mentors, coaches, and friends show up time and time again and here’s to the 2 that have been the dearest invisible leaders of all… my parents!
Thank you, Julie. Sounds like you have also been blessed with wonderful Parents who set the example simply by being themselves. And, look at how terrific a leader (an “invisible leader”) you have been for those in the E.Y.E. Club. You’re terrific, and touching a lot of lives!
This is very encouraging Bob. As I meet with people during this tax season this is my personal goal “focus on creating an environment where others can succeed, grow and feel good about themselves”. Thanks Bob.
I love it! That’s awesome, Jeff. Thank you for sharing!
Great post, Bob! I must grab a copy of the book from your friend, Robin Sharma. I definitely echo the thoughts and ideas that you and Julie shared. Leadership has so many dimensions and spheres of influence which leave a tremendous impact. I liked the comparison you made with invisible not equating to being unseen. Keep up the awesome work!
Chi Chi, thank you. Yes, I loved Robin’s book. He’s a genius and his book is amazing. Please let us know your thoughts after you read it. I have a feeling you’ll love it, as you are a leader yourself, with or without a title. 🙂
Excellent post, Bob! I thought you and your readers might like to know where that quote about “invisible leaders” comes from. It’s from Chapter 17 of the ancient Chinese book, “Tao Te Ching”, attributed to a writer named Lao Tzu. My husband’s own translation of that chapter goes like this:
Superior leadership is transparent.
The next is honoured and loved.
The next, respected.
The lowest, despised.
Where trust is lacking, trust is not inspired.
But when the word comes gently
and the work is done,
the people all say, “We did it by ourselves”.
Isn’t it wonderful how timeless wisdom is? The Tao Te Ching was written around 500 BCE!
Lao Tzu was truly an amazing human being. His wisdom is timeless, indeed!
Excellent piece, Bob! I know a leader who embodies this quote: Le Herron, whom you’ve mentioned in earlier blog posts. The retired CEO of Scotts (now Scotts MiracleGro), Le wrote and published MAKING YOUR COMPANY HUMAN: INSPIRING OTHERS TO REACH THEIR POTENTIAL, which expresses his philosophy of leading by helping others to excel. Not only was the company extremely successful while he headed it, but many longtime Scott associates still say those were the best years of their lives.
Hi Sherry, yes, Le Herron is one of my greatest heroes. I bring his book with me to every presentation and usually I read a passage from it; the one about the Sergeant and Mr. Herron’s initial leadership lesson that he relates early in the book. Le is the embodiment of what a leader should be.
{Note: For more information on Le’s book, visit http://makingyourcompanyhuman.com}
Hey Bob! I’m not being a brown-noser here (although it may appear that way) but YOU are my invisible leader. As I get to know you personally, I see firsthand how you walk the talk of what you write and speak about. The help you gave me yesterday on my virgin blog has helped me enormously and your willingness to give really struck me.
Many years ago, Bob Proctor said we should “treat every person you meet as the most important person on earth”. Well that’s what you did and do and it means so much to those at the receiving end of your generosity. You reminded me to keep on doing that because if the people I treat that way think of me as gratefully as I think of you, well we all win. <3
Linda, all I can say in response to your very kind and gracious comment is “thank you and please know that you made my day.” That meant a LOT to me, my friend!
Hi Bob! Just want to make it short and to the point, my biggest leaders are as follows, You of course, Orrin Woodward, Robin Sharma, and Randy Gage, there are more but they are my biggest, and I want to use this oppurtunity to thank you for all what you are doingfor us. P.S. Just to let you know, that just as there are “Invisible Leaders” so are there “Invisible Followers” (Readers), I am an example and I know there are much more.
Shlomo, thank you so much; I’m extremely honored to know that you consider me to be one of your invisible leaders, and that you include me amongst people such as Orrin, Robin and Randy. WOW! And, I have a feeling you are an Invisible Leader, as well!
Great insights. I’ve often noticed the best leaders are those who get out of the way and let their employees shine.
Thank you, Guy! How often that is true! They are there when needed, but seem to have a knack of knowing exactly when that is – and is not – the case.