Opinions of Monday, 27 November 2017

Columnist: Simon Aikins

Do you motivate or destroy as a leader?

Leadership position should be treated with all the seriousness that it deserves Leadership position should be treated with all the seriousness that it deserves

Honestly, it is only a few who would turn down a juicy mantle of leadership. It is the aim of most people to be the ones to call the shots wherever they find themselves. It would be a bit hypocritical to think otherwise. Being in a leadership position isn't all about the glamour. It comes with taking hard decisions, making sacrifices and to some extent acquiescing to external pressures.

Leadership position should be treated with all the seriousness that it deserves, but it doesn't mean followers should be trampled upon to satisfy the whims and caprices of the said leader.

Some are born leaders. They only need a little bit of coaching and they are good to go. Some also get to the pinnacle by dint of hard work. A few also get into leadership positions because a void has been created and since they are the best bootlickers, they get the nod. Others distinguish themselves from the pack by the way they execute duties assigned them.

By virtue of your position, it is expected of you to leave an indelible mark that would only take a miracle to erase your good works and this will not be achieved on a silver platter.

What type of a leader are you? If you are the one whose subordinates run for cover just by mere mention of your name, then you need to revise your notes. How do you get the best from your colleagues when you stifle their thinking, freedom of expression and also subject them to tons of insults? The only thing you can achieve is eye service. I always go berserk when people in leadership position look down on their subordinates and see themselves as demigods over their subordinates.

Again, in our domestic affairs, sometimes, I find it difficult to understand some husbands who treat their wives and their offsprings as if they were their slaves. It is true, husbands are the heads of homes but it doesn't mean, they should force everything down the throats of wives without them questioning the rationale behind some weird decisions. You can be tough but flexible. I feel ashamed when I hear that, my fellow men see their wives as only baby outlets and that they do not have brains in their heads. Don't forget, they are there to compliment your efforts and not to be seen as one of the household materials.

Let your era of leadership inspire confidence in your colleagues and also your successors should attribute every feat they chalk to you due to your positive influence on their their lives.

To the destroyers who have found their way into leadership positions and destroy everything they lay their hands on, remember that the power you are wielding will not be forever. You may find yourself somewhere someday. How would you feel if you were treated same? I am sure there is a window of opportunity for you to mend your ways and become a better leader. Just ask yourself, how would I be remembered after taking a bow from my current position? Your guess is as good as mine.