In my professional life, as someone in a position of influence, I have a responsibility to help people be successful. One of the ways I have taken action to serve others is by being accessible and approachable. I make an effort to create an open and inclusive environment where individuals feel comfortable reaching out to me for guidance and support. Additionally, I actively listen to their concerns and needs, providing empathetic and constructive feedback to help them overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
Furthermore, I believe in empowering others by delegating tasks and responsibilities appropriately. By entrusting individuals with important roles and giving them the autonomy to make decisions, I not only cultivate a sense of ownership and motivation but also foster their professional growth and development. This approach helps to build a strong and efficient team where each member can contribute their unique skills and talents.
According to the views of authority presented in the textbook on servant leadership, my actions align with the principles of this leadership style. Servant leadership emphasizes the importance of serving others, putting their needs and growth above one’s own. It encourages leaders to actively support and empower their followers, creating an environment of trust and collaboration.
According to Spears (2010), a key aspect of servant leadership is the idea of being a steward, focusing on the needs of others and promoting their well-being. By being accessible and offering guidance, I demonstrate my commitment to serving others and facilitating their success. Furthermore, by empowering individuals and encouraging their professional growth, I promote their overall well-being and contribute to their success.
In comparison, the secular view of authority often highlights power dynamics and hierarchical structures. Authority is often seen as a means to control and direct others towards specific goals, with individual success superseding the needs of others. In this view, leaders may prioritize their own interests over the well-being and growth of their followers.
A study by Van Dierendonck and Nuijten (2011) explored the differences between servant leadership and traditional leadership styles. They found that servant leadership was associated with increased well-being, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment among followers. In contrast, traditional leadership styles were associated with higher levels of burnout and lower job satisfaction. These findings indicate that a servant leadership approach, characterized by a focus on serving others and promoting their success, can have a positive impact on individuals and organizations.
Overall, my actions of being accessible, supportive, and empowering align with the principles of servant leadership. By prioritizing the needs and growth of others, I strive to create a positive and inclusive professional environment. This approach not only benefits individuals by promoting their success and well-being but also contributes to the overall effectiveness and success of the team and organization.
