Lead By Guiding Not Bossing
Yesterday I did one of the things I love most: worked with students. Specifically I was working with elementary students. What I’ve learned over the years is, they can be very insightful on leadership. A fourth grader, while having a discussion about helping others, said, “I have learned it is better to guide others than to boss them.” In fact she wrote that on her name tent (see featured photo). This was quite the drop-the-mic moment. This young scholar gets a leadership attribute that some adults have trouble with. She went on to say that, “Others don’t like it when I’m bossy; they want me to help them.” More great insight!
I love the insights of young people. Her experience reminded us it is more effective and respectful to lead or mentor people by offering support, advice, encouragement, and help rather than simply giving orders or controlling them. Guiding involves inspiring and helping others grow, fostering cooperation and trust, whereas bossing may create resistance or resentment. I like to think of this as coming alongside others, shoulder-to-shoulder, and helping. Essentially, it emphasizes the value of leadership through understanding and collaboration rather than authority and commands.
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