How do leaders serve their people? They may pay good wages and

"How do leaders serve their people? They may pay good wages and treat employees with respect." These words by John C. Maxwell bring forth the timeless understanding that true leadership is not about wielding power over others, but about serving them with dignity and care. Leadership, in its highest form, is an act of service, where the leader's role is to uplift, empower, and ensure the well-being of those they lead. Maxwell’s statement is a reminder that leadership is not about command or control but about the thoughtful and compassionate actions that nurture the community, ensuring that every individual is respected and valued.

In ancient times, the most revered leaders were those who understood that their role was to serve their people, not to dominate them. Consider the story of King Cyrus the Great of Persia, whose leadership is celebrated not only for his military victories but for his respect for the customs and beliefs of the people he conquered. Cyrus is remembered as a king who freed the oppressed and allowed different cultures within his empire to flourish. His compassion and fairness earned him the loyalty of his subjects, not through fear or force, but through the respect he showed them. This was the hallmark of wise leadership in the ancient world—leaders who treated their people with dignity, fostering an environment where justice and peace could thrive.

Similarly, the great philosopher Plato in his writings on the ideal state emphasized that the role of the ruler was not to exploit the people but to serve them by ensuring that they were treated justly and were allowed to live in harmony. In his work, The Republic, Plato envisioned a society where leaders governed not for their personal gain, but for the well-being of the entire community. His ideal ruler, the philosopher-king, was not one who demanded loyalty through force, but one who led by example, demonstrating wisdom, integrity, and respect for those they served. Plato’s vision aligns closely with Maxwell’s idea that a leader’s service to the people is demonstrated through fair treatment, respect, and the provision of a better life for all.

The wisdom of ancient rulers and philosophers continues to echo in Maxwell’s words. Leadership is about recognizing the value of each individual and understanding that the true strength of any community comes from the collective well-being of its members. This was the principle that guided leaders like Emperor Ashoka of India, who after his bloody conquests, embraced a policy of non-violence, justice, and respect for all people. Ashoka’s rule was marked by his efforts to serve his people through compassionate governance, building hospitals, promoting trade, and upholding moral laws that protected the most vulnerable in society. Like Cyrus and Plato, Ashoka’s legacy stands as a testament to the power of leadership that is grounded in service and respect for others.

In more recent history, we can draw lessons from Abraham Lincoln, whose leadership during the American Civil War was shaped by his unwavering commitment to freedom, justice, and equality. Lincoln's ability to treat all individuals with respect—even those who opposed him—demonstrates the strength of a leader who is truly serving the people. His leadership was marked by his dedication to the welfare of the nation, his willingness to listen to diverse opinions, and his profound respect for human dignity, regardless of race or background. Lincoln’s legacy is one of a leader who placed the well-being of the people at the center of his decision-making, knowing that true service comes from respect and compassion.

Maxwell’s quote calls us to reflect on the essence of leadership in our own lives. Leaders are not those who accumulate power for themselves, but those who recognize that their role is to support, empower, and uplift those they lead. Whether in the workplace, at home, or in our communities, we are all called to lead by example. This leadership is shown not in grand gestures, but in the way we treat others—with respect, fairness, and a commitment to their well-being. When we focus on the well-being of those around us, we foster a sense of trust, loyalty, and shared purpose, just as the great leaders of the past did.

The lesson here is clear: true leadership is not about dominating others or accumulating power, but about serving them. To lead effectively, we must recognize the inherent value of those we serve, treat them with respect, and ensure that their needs—whether for fair wages, safety, or compassion—are met. Service is the highest form of leadership, and in serving others, we find the path to true greatness. Let us strive to embody these principles in our own lives, leading with respect and integrity, and in doing so, inspire others to follow the same noble path.