Many have titles. Some have skill. Only elite leaders have moral authority.
Moral authority is influence earned because others trust your motives, character, and intentions.
“The essence of moral authority is sacrifice.” Robert Greenleaf
The less you hunt for status, the more you find.
The Sacrifices of Moral Authority
#1. Contribution
You serve the work, or you serve yourself.
Viktor Frankl first asked, “What is it that I want?” Then he looked higher and asked, “What is wanted of me?”
Moral authority grows when ego bows to service. You don’t gather moral authority like titles. It’s a gift given by others.
Challenge: Forget personal advantage. Ask, “What does the good work ask of you today?”
#2. Others Before Self
Servant leaders sacrifice self-importance.
Imagine a boss who serves the best interest of others. Would you follow him? Would you trust her?
The foundation of ethical authority is humility.
Ego loves personal advantage. Servant leaders advantage others.
- What’s on your mind when you show up at work?
- Who do you serve?
- What’s your greatest contribution as a leader?
Project: List how people are better because you lead. Ask people to anonymously write one way you bring value to their lives. (This project requires humility.)
#3. Listening
If listening is easy, you aren’t doing it.
Leaders listen. It’s more than keeping your mouth shut.
Listeners instill responsibility by exploring the worth in other people’s ideas. You build confidence by being willing to change your mind.
Saint Francis prayed, “Grant that I may not so much seek to be understood as to understand.”
Challenge: When someone finishes speaking, count to two before you respond.
Who has moral authority in your world? What are their sacrifices?
The Real Truth About Authority, Power, and Position
The language of power and authority in leadership – ScienceDirect
