With a Fullerton city council recall election fast approaching whose motto is "End Failed Leadership," I have found myself thinking about leadership lately. I suppose I have become, in my own sphere, a kind of leader, and the past few years have taught me a few things about what makes a good leader.
Based on my experiences and observations, there are two basic types of leader: The Servant-Leader and the Ego-Leader. Most people, if they are honest with themselves, fall somewhere on the spectrum between these two poles.
The Servant-Leader's chief qualities are humility and selflessness. A Servant-Leader sees his role as making life better for others. This type of leader sees greatness as a result of what he/she gives, rather than what he/she gets. I strive to be a Servant-Leader.
The Ego-Leader's chief qualities are arrogance and a desire for power. An Ego-Leader sees his role as making life better for himself. This type of leader sees greatness as a result of what he gets rather than what he gives. I fight the tendency in myself to be an Ego-Leader.
As I consider who to vote for in the Fullerton Recall Election, I will vote for those people whom I perceive to be Servant-Leaders. So far, I like Jane Rands and Matt Rowe. I am undecided about the rest.
