“A leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves.”
- 571 BC? – 470 BC?
- Born in China
- Philosopher
- Founder of Taoism, author of the Tao Te Ching and systematized Taoist thought
Quote
“A leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves.”
Explanation
This quote from Laozi reflects the ideal of selfless leadership—a leader who works quietly behind the scenes, guiding without imposing or seeking recognition. The best leaders, according to Laozi, are those who do not seek the spotlight but instead empower others to take ownership of their success. This aligns with the Daoist value of humility, where leadership is about creating conditions for others to thrive rather than seeking control or admiration. A true leader, in this sense, works in harmony with the group, ensuring that their influence is felt indirectly, leading to a collective sense of achievement.
In modern terms, this quote can be seen as a call for servant leadership, a style of leadership where the leader’s role is to serve the needs of the team, fostering an environment in which everyone contributes and takes pride in the outcome. Such leaders focus on facilitating collaboration, offering guidance when needed, and stepping back when their role is no longer required. This approach not only helps to build trust and empower individuals but also leads to a more sustainable and harmonious form of leadership.
This idea can be observed in various fields today. For example, in successful organizations, leaders who prioritize the growth of their team members often see better results, as the team feels autonomous and valued. When the group’s success is framed as a collective effort rather than the result of one person’s dominance, it leads to greater satisfaction and a more unified, motivated team. Laozi’s philosophy remains highly relevant in today’s leadership practices, where fostering independence and empowerment is key to achieving lasting success.
