Leadership Alchemy No.25-G: Learning from the Paragons: Gandhiji’s Leadership Blueprint

Drawing inspirational leadership lessons from pioneers who have charted the course.
 
By Anupama Vaidya.  

Leadership is a journey. You don’t become a leader overnight; it’s the course you navigate that defines true leadership, else it’s remains an entitled chair! On this day, January 30, what better way than to pen down my thoughts for the leadership alchemy; on a day where we pay our homage to an individual who led a path with millions joining in the one mission of independence. Mahatma Gandhi.  As we bow to his martyrdom today, mastering leadership demands on us, not only to learn from our very own experiences but also to draw wisdom from those who've paved the way. They serve as the guiding north stars in our leadership journey. Mahatma Gandhiji, whose life epitomized the essence of leadership as a journey and not a mere position.

Being in control of any situation.
Crucial situations & moments Mahatma Gandhi’s, such as his dignified response when asked to leave the first class compartment, his leadership in the satyagraha movement; and even his calm courage in uttering “Hey Ram” as his last words after being shot to death, are enduring reminders! They highlight that authentic leadership shines when individuals demonstrate control over circumstances.  True leadership is also evident when confronted with unprecedented challenges, demanding the poise to navigate and chart a strategic course of action. (for insights into strategic navigation, refer to Leadership Alchemy No.10.)

Exemplifying Leadership through Actions.  
“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” This profound quote by Gandhiji serves as an enduring reminder of the potency of leading by example. True leadership lies in the purity of one's actions, in walking the talk; exemplifying them in every action. Mahatma Gandhi, an embodiment of this principle, not only preached but lived the ideals he advocated. From civil disobedience to the promotion of indigenous products, Gandhi's life is a testament to the transformative power of leading through action.

Gandhiji's leadership during the Satyagraha movement stands as a testament to leading from the front. He didn't just articulate his vision; he physically walked miles, tirelessly working to unite the nation in the pursuit of freedom. His commitment to Satyagraha showcased the essence of his belief that leadership requires active, personal involvement in the causes one champions.

Furthermore, in his promotion of the Swadeshi movement, Gandhiji went beyond rhetoric. He actively participated in the economic self-reliance he preached. By personally weaving the thread for the cloth on the charkha, he demonstrated the sincerity of his commitment to the cause. This act symbolized the essence of the Swadeshi movement, encouraging the use of locally produced goods and emphasizing the importance of self-sufficiency.

In imbibing this quality, leaders can inspire genuine change and foster a collective commitment to shared values.

Enduring change, harnessing unprecedented resources:
Non-violence or Satyagraha movement. Stands as an enduring testament to the humanity’s formidable capacity to confront missions that appear insurmountable. It serves as a living example of the profound impact that unfolds through unwavering belief, steadfast commitment, persistent determination, and the audacity to challenge the existing norms with unconventional methods – a true embodiment of impactful leadership.
 
This movement not only defied traditional frames of reference in its quest but also embraced the transformative potential found in uncharted territories. By harnessing the potency of unconventional resource of non-violence, where none seemed to exist, it imparts a profound lesson in the dynamics of influential leadership.
 
The power of unthinkable emerges as a guiding principle for leaders, accentuating the potential to create enduring change, as exemplified by Gandhiji, a paragon of true leadership. He showcased this not only by navigating the familiar but by fearlessly venturing into the unknown; paving way for the innovative solutions that stand the test of time.
 
Gandhiji astutely recognized that the true power of the fight for independence lay within the common man, transcending the traditional emphasis on violence & military force (a strategy deemed nearly impossible for achieving independence). This serves as a profound example of how transformative change can be instigated by those who dare to challenge norms and navigate unexplored paths.
 
Purpose led servant leadership, driven by values.

Fueled by the vision of a liberated India, propelled by a resolute purpose to champion the cause of independence, and steadfastly committed to the mission of actualizing this profound aspiration, Gandhiji stands as an epitome the purpose-led servant leadership, embodying values that resonate across generations.
 
His leadership style is characterized by humility, simplicity, frugality, integrity, magnanimity, approachability, and inclusivity — a holistic approach that extends beyond traditional leadership paradigms.
 
Humility & Simplicity as the core. Illustrated in his daily life, embracing a modest and simple lifestyle with homespun clothes and communal spaces living. Leading by example, Gandhiji’s commitment to humility and simplicity become the cornerstone of his leadership, establishing a compelling precedent for others to emulate in the pursuit of the shared purpose.
 
Unwavering integrity. Doing what is right when even no one is seeing. Integrity was the bedrock of Gandhiji’s leadership, inspiring trust and respect. Gandhiji in his autobiography, refers to couple of examples during his school days involving him requiring to prepare a write-up on honesty while copying it from another book as well as the incident when he faced an internal struggle with cheating during an examination. In both the cases, he recognized, acknowledged the moral dilemmas and stood up for the right virtues. It requires courage, it requires profound self-reflection. These acts of honesty and integrity not only resulted in a sense of relief for Gandhiji but also demonstrated his commitment to moral principles, even at a young age. As they say maturity of a human is not in age but in thought.
 
Enduring personal hardships with a large heart. Gandhiji’s capacity to endure personal hardships for the greater good was marked by a selflessness that transcended the pursuit of power. Even as the prospect of independence materialized, he steadfastly declined to assume the helm of administration, recognizing capable individuals who could lead. His refusal was a testament to his fight not being for himself or the positions of authority but for the greater good! His unparalleled generosity, compassion, and selflessness set him apart from many positional leaders. Gandhiji's sacrifices and unwavering commitment amid adversity anchored him deeply, grounding him in a way that remains exemplary.

In our leadership odyssey, delving into these lessons leaves an indelible mark on our hearts and minds, fostering continual personal growth as we chart the journey of leadership. Drawing inspiration from the teachings of revered figures like Gandhiji serves as a powerful method to absorb, apply and thrive in our leadership.

 
Devoting just 1% of our every day (24 hours with 60 mins X 1 % = 15 mins everyday), daily reflections is an invaluable framework to significantly and meaningfully enhance ourselves. A time to pause and reflect, scan your day to find areas that you did well, you can do better, you need to stop doing!
 
Pause and Reflect:
 
🕐Do I Really Care About Our Common Goal? Am I truly dedicated to our shared purpose, or am I just going along with it? What do I need to do to refresh & rejuvenate myself to take charge of the shared purpose?
 
🕑Do My Actions Match My Goals? Do I just talk about my efforts, or do the outcomes speak for my dedication to the goal we're working towards? How will I shift my focus to outcomes rather than being caught in efforts?
 
🕒How Do I Handle Tough Situations? When things get tough, am I taking charge, or do I feel helpless? How do I react in crucial moments? What do I need to do build the courage to experiment and lead situations rather than it leading me?
 
🕔Are My Actions Matching My Words? Do my actions show what I say? Have I done something today that proves my commitment, or am I just talking? What will I do to ensure that my behaviors are in synch to my talk?
 
🕕Am I open to Improving? Am I trying to prove I'm right, or am I open to discovering better ways of doing things? How well do I bounce back from challenges, and am I looking for solutions that aren't obvious?What will I do differently when to walk this journey of learning?
 
🕖Am I serving or being served? Am I a Giver or a Taker? In my interactions and work, am I more focused on giving and serving, or am I mostly thinking about what I can get? This includes resources, energy, and the results of our efforts. How will I cultivate the “Art of Giving” in everything I do?

As you take a moment for introspection, let the illuminating journey of Gandhian leadership serve as a guiding beacon, leading you through the intricate tunnel of leadership with profound wisdom and timeless insights.