Seven Fundamental Rules for Leadership:
Eliminating Corruption and Ensuring Sustainability
We live in a society where it seems that corruption and short-term thinking are everywhere. This has created an explosion of leadership courses that offer all sorts of quick-fix solutions and academic accreditation. However, it is because these courses are bound to the academic system that these academically accredited courses fail. After all the educational system is controlled by the government which we can assume to be corrupt and self-serving to some extent. Our would-be leaders look out for their pockets and the production of a subservient workforce before the intellectual needs and the holistic well-being of the global population.
Climate change is now big business, but increasing contamination levels, decreasing biodiversity and the equilibrium of our planet are sidelined in favour of maintaining the consumerist economy. Although this latest fad is now the unprecedented need to switch to electric and ditch diesel.
Medically there is a similar policy. When there is a choice between offering a cheap, real cure, or a temporary pill to alleviate the symptoms then the pill is prescribed and big pharma pockets the profit while millions die from chronic illness.
Corporate seed and pesticide monopolies rake in agricultural profit at the expense of our nutrition and processed foods fill supermarket shelves so that obesity is also now big business. However, the junk food keeps rolling and the party never ends!
However I diverge, these facts don’t change the truth that we need a fundamental shift in how we approach governance and leadership. But perhaps this change doesn’t start in the realms of leadership and governance. Money, as they say, makes the world go round. It is precisely for that reason that we are in this seemingly unescapable corrupt system. The corporate elite now have a net worth that doubles many of our most important leaders. Many of us are now questioning, not so quietly “Who is pulling our strings, and who is pulling theirs?”
Therefore, it is true that leaders now and in the future need actionable advice that addresses the core values essential for effective, ethical, and sustainable leadership. Some form of blockchain governance needs to be enforced. But if our strings are being pulled by the corporate elite few, we have strength in our numbers. We can put our money where our mouth is and let it do the talking for us. It’s been said before, but it begs repetition. Elites and the mega-rich need our money, and as consumers, that gives us the ability to destabilize the power play within these untouchable echelons in their game of self-interest.
By thinking critically about the information, we are fed every day, fact-checking this information ourselves, and not blindly believing the fact-checkers. By not swallowing the sedative of mass media, or the placebo of quick-fix entertainment and seeking out true wisdom or simply reading a book that might, just might, push back our mental limitations and force us to think about how the world around us works. Only then will we be able to open our eyes and make informed decisions about how we want our future to look and the steps we need to get there.
Just as there are seven deadly sins, I believe there are seven fundamental guidelines for transformational leadership. These emphasize humility, transparency, integrity, adaptability, and a commitment to sustainability. By adhering to these principles, leaders can drive meaningful change and combat corruption, paving the way for a more just and sustainable future. It is our responsibility to ensure that the leaders we support are guided by these seven guidelines.
1. Humility and Generosity vs. Pride
Those who demonstrate sincere humility and generosity define transformational leadership as true leadership begins with humility. The acknowledgement of our limitations and showing that we value others’ contributions creates an environment of mutual respect and continuous learning. Although these people do not always have the right answers, they recognise that listening, and learning from others, are crucial for personal, organizational, and evolutionary growth.
Those who are selfless prioritize the collective good and other’s well-being and success over personal gain thereby inspiring trust and loyalty within those around them. This altruistic approach encourages collaboration and helps build a supportive and cohesive society. To create a strong foundation for mutual respect and support. Individuals must be seen as genuinely invested in their other people’s success. In the case of governance, they should care about the population’s holistic welfare.
Remember that generosity, in this context, extends beyond material resources. It involves sharing time, and knowledge, and truly emotionally engaging with team members. There is a difference between being present and being in the moment. Set an example to invest in the team’s development, by providing mentorship and resources to help them grow. This act of giving fosters loyalty and gratitude, boosting team morale and productivity. Encourage team members to adopt a similar mindset of support and collaboration.
2. Self-control and Adaptability vs. Gluttony
We supposedly live in a free world and must choose the path our life takes daily. Therefore, the ability to exercise self-control and adaptability is indispensable. It is crucial to maintain focus surrounded by a constant stream of often superfluous information. It is highly important to maintain our composure even in high-pressure situations. Those who can remain in control when everything around them is falling to pieces can manage their emotions and reactions and make rational decisions under pressure. This ability to stay calm and collected inspires confidence and stability within any team or any social situation. By exercising self-control, leaders can navigate crises effectively and maintain a clear vision of the team’s goals.
Moderation is equally important, as it ensures a sustainable lifestyle and prevents burnout. Leaders who balance ambition with realistic expectations promote a healthy work-life balance for themselves and those they influence. This approach enhances long-term productivity and holistic well-being. By advocating for moderation, the precedent for mindful and responsible work practices is set.
Leaders who embrace change and adapt to new circumstances can navigate uncertainties and capitalize on opportunities. Flexibility allows us to adjust our strategies and approaches as needed, improving problem-solving and resilience. By being adaptable, leaders demonstrate their ability to thrive in dynamic environments, ensuring the continued success of others.
3. Integrity and Honesty vs. Greed
There can be no trust without honesty. Those who prioritize truthfulness foster a transparent environment where individuals feel confident in their leader’s integrity. This commitment to truth is crucial in addressing and preventing corruption. By creating an open and honest culture ethical behaviour is encouraged and everyone feels the responsibility to accept the consequences of their actions.
Integrity and honesty are non-negotiable qualities of effective leadership. Authenticity builds trust and credibility. Those who have proven themselves to be genuine in their actions and words can be relied upon and respected by those around them. Authenticity fosters a culture of honesty and transparency. This is essential for combating corruption. When leaders are true to their values and consistently act with integrity, they set a powerful example.
Strong ethical principles should guide everyone in making fair and consistent decisions. By adhering to these ideals, we can ensure justice and equality within society and organizations of all kinds. Upholding these values reinforces the importance of ethical behaviour and helps to build a strong, principled culture.
4. Empathy and Compassion vs. Wrath
Martin Luther Key said, “Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that”. Therefore, it stands to reason that empathy and compassion are critical for understanding and addressing team needs and concerns. Those who demonstrate empathy enjoy the benefits of a stronger more unified team, in group that lacks trust and mutual respect leads to a toxic environment. Compassionate leaders can support their team members effectively, promoting a positive and inclusive work environment.
The ability to see things from another’s perspective is essential for making fair and informed decisions. By showing compassion, we can make those around us feel valued and understood, which leads to increased motivation and engagement. On the other hand, wrath promotes similar negative feelings in others leads to resentment and undermines team cohesion.
5. Positivity and Responsibility vs. Sloth
Positive leaders boost morale motivation and proactivity in those around them, creating an atmosphere of altruism, enthusiasm, and optimism. A positive outlook is contagious and stimulates positive energy and creativity within others. Optimistic leaders cultivate a positive work environment where team members recognise their own value, feel able to express their original ideas, and know they are appreciated.
Responsibility for actions and outcomes demonstrates accountability and reliability. Leaders who take ownership of their actions earn respect and trust from their team, fostering a culture of integrity and ethical behaviour. By accepting responsibility, leaders show their commitment to their role and their team’s success. This accountability encourages team members to also take ownership of their work and strive for excellence.
On the other hand, sloth represents laziness and a lack of responsibility, leading to disengagement and unproductive work habits.
6. Continuous Learning and Critical Thinking vs. Envy
Too often we see in society that individuals are intimidated or envious of others’ success or prowess in any area. However, the smart thing to do is to keep good company with these people, learn from them, and acquire the qualities that you most admire in them. Continuous learning and independent thinking have always fostered innovation. Leaders who encourage and practice this make informed decisions and promote creativity and continuous learning in those around them. Foster critical thought in those around you. You don’t need sheep you need smarts to get ahead in this world. So don’t shy away from criticism. Listen carefully you may learn something. Lift those around you and you will share in their ascension. Challenge dogmas and explore new ideas, spark innovation!
Continuous learning is essential in a rapidly advancing world. We cannot expect to pass and obtain academic certificates and believe that our life of learning has ended successfully. Life itself is the greatest teacher of all and the experiences and challenges we continually mould us into the person we will become. Anyone who seeks knowledge and aims to stay informed and competent always will have the upper hand on someone who becomes entrenched in rigid thought processes. By prioritizing continuous learning in society, governments keep the population active and mentally flexible, and a society whose skills and knowledge are up to date ensures they remain effective and increases mental health.
Equally government leaders, corporate leaders and any individual who thinks critically can develop better strategies and solutions to day-to-day problems, ensuring long-term success in any situation.
Envy, on the other hand, leads to resentment and a lack of cooperation, preventing leaders from learning and growing through collaboration.
7. Health and Sustainability vs. Lust
Finally, good health is crucial for maintaining energy and focus. Therefore leaders, or anyone who chooses to prioritize their health will perform better than anyone who fails to prioritise their own health or how their actions may affect the health of those around them. By promoting healthy habits and well-being within society, corporations, schools, families, and society we create a supportive and thriving environment and set a positive example for others.
Good health goes hand in hand with the concept of sustainability. Leaders who act sustainably benefit their organization and the environment, promoting a culture of ethical and responsible behaviour. Adopting sustainable practices helps ensure the long-term viability of the planet and our positive impact on the world for now and for future generations. Remember the importance of thinking in the long term, and how our thoughts, words and actions have ramifications for future generations. We need to stop thinking of the consequences of our actions within our lifetime and more about how our actions will affect those who come after us.
Lust would be the other end of the spectrum and it represents an unchecked desire and pursuit of short-term gratification, often at the expense of long-term health and sustainability.
Conclusion
We can see that transformational leadership is rooted in humility, integrity, adaptability, and a commitment to ethical principles and sustainability. But no individual is an island. The fact is that these values should be upheld by every one of us as we all affect others and in turn the world, we live in either positively or negatively. It is time to take responsibility and stop pointing fingers but uphold these seven rules.
leaders can drive significant change, combat corruption, and foster a more just and sustainable future. But the responsibility does not fall solely to our leaders. It also rests on our shoulders. Implementing these principles will not only enhance our leaders’ capabilities but also inspire and motivate teams and society to achieve collective, progressive, and holistic success.
If you a want to make a change enrol in
Dr Schellhammer’s
STRATEGIC GLOBAL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
FOR ANYONE SEEKING A NEW DIRECTIION, NEW EDUCATION, & A NEW AGE FOR HUMANITY!
This exclusive program challenges conventional wisdom, explores profound questions to stimulate systemic holistic improvements in education, business and society.
The creation of a new type of leader will provoke the necessary changes with the wisdom we so urgently need, providing actionable solutions, and emphasizing the need for the rediscovery of authentic human values.
Some sessions will be individually focussed and others will consist of group workshops and seminars
The program consists of 4 distinct Units and we recommend starting with Unit 1. Sessions are on Tuesday and Thursday 11.00 and – 11.45 am by prior appointment.
