“It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership.”
Image credits: John Mathew Smith 2001,”From Wash D.C. Longworth building October 4, 1994. Mandela’s first trip to the United States.”,CC BY-SA 2.0,Nelson Mandela 1994 – Nelson Mandela – Wikipedia
- July 18, 1918 – December 5, 2013
- Born in South Africa
- Politician, lawyer
- The first black president of South Africa, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for abolishing apartheid and building a democratic South Africa where multiple ethnic groups coexist.
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Quote
“It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership.”
Explanation
This quote by Nelson Mandela encapsulates his philosophy of humble leadership and selfless service. Mandela often spoke about leadership not as a position of power or authority, but as a responsibility to serve and uplift others. Leading from behind means not seeking the spotlight for personal glory but allowing others to take credit and celebrate success. The true test of leadership, according to Mandela, comes when there is danger or adversity, and this is when a true leader steps to the front line to take on the risks and challenges on behalf of the group. This style of leadership prioritizes the collective well-being over individual recognition, and fosters a sense of trust and respect from those being led.
Historically, Mandela demonstrated this leadership approach throughout his life, especially during his role in the anti-apartheid struggle. While many leaders sought attention for their actions, Mandela consistently showed a willingness to sacrifice his own freedom for the greater good. For example, during the years of resistance and imprisonment, Mandela often kept a low profile in terms of personal glory, focusing instead on the unity and collective strength of the movement. He spent many years in prison not as a martyr seeking recognition but as a symbol of resilience and hope for the millions fighting for justice. When he became president of South Africa, he continued this philosophy, empowering others to lead in various areas, while he took on the challenges of nation-building and reconciliation.
In modern contexts, Mandela’s approach to leadership continues to resonate, particularly in the realms of community leadership, corporate governance, and political leadership. His message is particularly relevant in today’s world, where leadership is often celebrated as a personal achievement, and the focus is on charismatic figures or celebrity leaders. Mandela’s words serve as a reminder that the most effective leaders are those who empower others, lead by example, and take responsibility during times of difficulty. This kind of leadership fosters a culture of mutual respect, shared responsibility, and collective success, and encourages a shift away from individualism toward a more communal approach to leadership.
