Leadership Lessons From My Dad
Yesterday, on Father’s Day, I read an article about the beginnings of Father’s Day as a national holiday. Did you know President Richard Nixon signed the legislation making it a permanent national observance in 1972? I was nine years old in 1972 and at that age where my dad was invincible. As I read I began to reflect on my father and why I am so thankful for the great relationship I had with my dad. My dad was one of those who if you brought home straight A’s and one “A-” he wanted to know why the “A-”and how were we going to make it an “A”.
As tough as that sounds, I needed that tough love and I thrived on it. My dad taught me not to settle. He also taught me about continuous improvement. Dad was teaching me about going from good to great long before Jim Collins made it a best selling book title in 2001. With this toughness, dad also coached me on being a person of integrity and doing what I say I am going to do.
My dad was also a perfectionist. I learned from watching him that perfection does get in the way of progress or completion. Luckily I did not get that part of dad’s DNA. It would take him so long to get something done because he had to make it perfect. My watching him, learning from him, and arguing about getting things done helped me become being comfortable with the messiness of innovation.
As I reflected on this it reminded me of J. R. R. Tolkien being a perfectionist. When getting feedback from the Inklings, he would many times start a manuscript completely over. This made his writing extremely slow and he left many unfinished works when he died. Now, make no mistake, Tolkien was extremely successful and significant. But, just like with my dad, perfection got in the way of progress and completion. I love Tolkien’s take on this in Leaf By Niggle. I wrote about this in Using Tolkien’s Leaf By Niggle As A Guide To Living With Significance.
Our dads are unique human beings. Our dads are not perfect. My dad was not perfect. However, my dad served as an incredible role model that I look to every day. He modeled for me how to be a great dad and I hope my son has learned from my positive qualities and imperfections like I did from my dad.
Power And Its Risks
In The War for Middle-earth: J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis Confront the Gathering Storm, 1933–1945, author Joseph Loconte said, “It is thus unsurprising that their [C. S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkien] stories [The Chronicles of Narnia and The Lord of the Rings] identify the Will to Power as the chief source of the evil in the world that must be resisted. Both The Chronicles of Narnia and The Lord of the Rings vividly depict how characters face temptation that can lead to moral corruption. These stories remind us that power and influence can be seductive, often blinding individuals to their ethical responsibilities.
From an interview, Loconte quoted Niall Ferguson saying, “In both The Chronicles of Narnia and The Lord of the Rings we see exquisite portrayals of temptation, and near fatal corruption.” Ferguson also said, “For the generation of Oxonians we’re talking about, it was obvious that power corrupts, and that absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Ferguson was emphasizing that experiencing power tends to lead to corruption, and when power is absolute, the risk becomes even greater. This teaches us the importance of checks and balances whether in governance, organizations, or personal conduct to prevent the rise of tyranny and moral decline.
Lewis’s and Tolkien’s narratives illustrate that no one is immune to temptation; even heroes can falter if they are not vigilant. It underscores the necessity of humility, self-awareness, and ethical vigilance, especially as one’s influence grows. Understanding these themes encourages us to foster systems that promote accountability, transparency, and ethical standards. It also reminds leaders and individuals alike to remain humble and cautious of the corrupting potential of power.
Leading By Doing What We Can
I recently saw an old episode of “In the Heat of the Night.” In the episode, Althea Tibbs (Anne-Marie Johnson) was speaking to police chief William “Bill” Gillespie (Carroll O’Connor). Althea was referring to her wanting to adopt two children who had lost both of their parents. Chief Gillespie commented how tough the process was going to be. Althea said, “You do what you can. You start where you are.” This is a pretty powerful statement. This really is quite a mantra. It reminds us that it is important to recognize our current situation and resources, rather than waiting for perfect conditions or more abilities.
It encourages taking action with what is available to us right now, rather than feeling overwhelmed or stuck by limitations. It is about making progress from our current position or situation, no matter how small, and understanding that every step forward counts. This all closely related to what I am reading in The War for Middle-earth: J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis Confront the Gathering Storm, 1933–1945. Author of this great book, Joseph Loconte wrote in reference to the characters of The Lord of the Rings, “The story is made even more realistic because the quest is undertaken by those who seem least likely to succeed, people all too familiar to us. Thus, the consequence of failure presses upon us at a personal and emotional level” (Loconte, p. 227). When I reflect on this I think about all the quests I’ve undertaken where I probably seemed least likely to succeed, but did anyway. I’ll bet you have stories like that too.
In The Lord of the Rings Elrond said, “This quest may be attempted by the weak with as much hope as the strong.” Elrond went on to say, “Yet such is oft the course of deeds that move the wheels of the world: small hands do them because they must, while the eyes of the great are elsewhere” (Tolkien, p. 262). We must all do what we can and start where we are.
As I relate this to leadership I am reminded that effective leadership involves demonstrating resilience by moving forward despite limitations, inspiring our teams and those we serve to stay proactive and resilient. It also entails embracing continuous learning, recognizing that perfection isn’t necessary from the outset. We need to use every experience as an opportunity to grow and improve.
Prudence in Leadership: Lessons from Aragorn’s Courage and Caution in The Lord of the Rings
In The Gospel According to Tolkien: Visions of the Kingdom in Middle-Earth by Ralph C. Wood, Wood explained how J. R. R. Tolkien brought the original virtue of “prudence” into his stories about Middle-earth. Wood said, “For the ancient Greeks and Romans, by contrast, prudence was the chief of the virtues, the one on which all the others are based.” Wood went on to say, “It [prudence] informs the other virtues because it entails a clear-eyed knowledge of objective truth as well as the ability to act on this knowledge.” The prudent person makes decisions that are appropriate to the particular situation.
Wood pointed to Aragorn as a great example of a leader with wisdom and prudence in The Lord of the Rings. Aragorn’s measured, thoughtful approach and his ability to balance courage with caution make him a shining example of prudence in leadership within The Lord of the Rings. Aragorn showed discernment in choosing when to lead from the front and when to support others. His leadership during battles and negotiations reflected his ability to assess situations calmly and act appropriately.
Prudence, as a classical virtue, is fundamental to effective leadership because it embodies wisdom, good judgment, and the ability to make thoughtful decisions. In leadership, prudence ensures that leaders consider the long-term consequences of their actions, weigh different options carefully, and act ethically and responsibly. It helps leaders remain calm under pressure, navigate complex situations with discernment, and avoid impulsive or reckless choices that could jeopardize their teams or organizations. Ultimately, prudence fosters trust, stability, and respect, enabling leaders to guide their teams wisely through challenges while maintaining integrity and upholding shared values.
Aragorn consistently demonstrated careful judgment, weighing options and considering long-term consequences before acting. For instance, he thoughtfully planned the approach to confront Sauron’s forces and recognized the importance of unity among diverse peoples.
Being Clueless
Bilbo Baggins was a sort of antihero in J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit. Bilbo begins the story as a rather naive and reluctant character who grows into his role. Sound familiar? How many of us would say that is how we were? So maybe I should say Bilbo was a reluctant leader instead of an antihero. He grew into being both a leader and hero.
“Now that he has proved himself many times over, the dwarves look back on Bilbo’s cluelessness with fondness” (Corey Olsen, Exploring J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, p. 201).
Bilbo’s occasional cluelessness in The Hobbit teaches us several valuable lessons. Bilbo reminded us that everyone has moments of uncertainty or lack of knowledge, and that’s completely okay. It emphasizes the importance of humility and being open to learning, even when we’re faced with unfamiliar situations. Bilbo’s mistakes and missteps during the quest often lead to growth and new opportunities, reminding us that errors are just part of the journey toward success.
Bilbo’s ability to adapt, remain resourceful, and eventually find courage underscores that sometimes, not knowing everything initially can be an important step toward discovering our own strengths. These moments of Bilbo’s cluelessness remind us to be patient with ourselves and others as we navigate life’s quests and adventures.
Why Go A-Roaming?
Sometimes we need a little reminder of what is important. At the end of J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, Bilbo Baggins’ and Gandalf stop to visit the elves. We they arrive the elves are singing a song. Here is part of it:
The stars are far brighter
Than gems without measure,
The moon is far whiter
Than silver in treasure;
The fire is more shining
On hearth in the gloaming
Than gold won by mining,
So why go a-roaming?
O! Tra-la-la-lally
Come back to the Valley. O!
Where are you going,
So late in returning?
The river is flowing,
The stars are all burning!
O! Whither so laden,
So sad and so dreary?
Here elf and elf-maiden
Now welcome the weary
With Tra-la-la-lally
Come back to the Valley,
Tra-la-la-lally
Fa-la-la-lally
The elves were pointing out that the night around them that particular evening in May contained far more beauty than the hoard of riches ever could. The elves ask a simple question: since the stars, the moon, and the elves’ fire all surpass the shining brightness of riches, then “why go a-roaming?” The elves are highlighting that the forest glade by the river is not only more lasting and permanent than anything in human society, but it is also more lovely and desirable than its greatest marvels.
The elves were reminding Bilbo, just as we need this reminder sometimes, that as Corey Olsen pointed out in Exploring J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit “The things ‘that men trusted’—war, power, strength, wealth—are all ephemeral things and will always fail in the end. The small things—the leaves and grass and silly elf songs—will endure, for they are ever renewed” (p. 290). I love Olsen use of the word “ephemeral” here. I also love the application from Tolkien to our own lives. No, we cannot isolate ourselves from the global society around us and we need to take an active part, but we need to remember the things that are lasting.
The elves’ reflection suggested that true value and fulfillment come from things like natural beauty, warmth, and inner light. Those elements surpass material riches. From this, we can take away the importance of appreciating simple, genuine joys and seeking meaning beyond material wealth. I believe Tolkien was giving us a reminder encouraging us to prioritize experiences, connections, and inner growth over superficial possessions. True brightness comes from within and from the natural world around us. Embracing this perspective can lead to a more enriching and meaningful life.
Being Part of a Grand Story
In my study of J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, I have been fascinated by Bilbo Baggins’ transformation. Bilbo Baggins is a gentle, humble hobbit. He enjoyed a simple life filled with comfort, good food, and quiet days. However, beneath his unassuming exterior, he possesses a curious and courageous spirit that leads him on an unexpected adventure beyond his cozy home. Throughout The Hobbit, Bilbo evolves from a cautious, reluctant participant into a brave and resourceful hero, discovering strengths and qualities he never knew he had. I already wrote about Bilbo’s development in From Timid to Trusted: Humble Leadership and
Courage and Wisdom Blended in Measure.
Interestingly, Corey Olsen also focused on Bilbo’s evolution in his great book, Exploring J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit. He posited that, “At the beginning of the book, the narrator invites us to judge whether Bilbo ‘gained anything in the end.’ In Chapter Five [The Hobbit], we are still far from the end, but we can already begin to see what Bilbo is gaining. Bilbo has passed the turning point in his career. He has ceased to be a passive victim of his adventure, and he has embraced his new life. He has even come to take pleasure in seeing his own life as part of the great, grand stories that he listened to (with obvious pleasure, despite their Tookishness) even when he lived in Bag-End” (p.p. 108-109). Olsen went on to say, “Bilbo has come to see that, though adventures may in truth be “nasty . . . uncomfortable things” that “make you late for dinner,” as he said back in Chapter One [The Hobbit], it can also be rather grand to be a part of one of the great stories” (p. 109). Bilbo had discovered qualities in himself he never knew, reminding us to recognize and develop our own and our team’s potential.
One of my favorite lines in The Hobbit is toward the end of the book when Gandalf told Bilbo, “You are not the hobbit that you were” (The Hobbit, p. 338). While reading the book I was witnessing the changes in Bilbo, but this really drove it home. The “quest” had changed Bilbo, and for the better. Think about how many times this happens to us. When I think back to my time as a principal of a turnaround school, there were times when it was pure hell. But it was also some of the most rewarding and life-changing work I have ever done. I developed friendships I still have today and I am certainly a different and better person for having been on that quest.
Bilbo’s transformation in The Hobbit offers valuable lessons for leaders. Initially, Bilbo is cautious, comfortable, and somewhat hesitant to step beyond his familiar world. But through his journey, he developed qualities like bravery, resourcefulness, perseverance, and adaptability. Those traits, along with embracing challenges, thinking creatively under pressure, and growing through experience, are essential for effective leadership.
Bilbo also learned to lead with humility and kindness. My other favorite line in The Hobbit is, “Already they had come to respect little Bilbo. Now he had become the real leader in their adventure. He had begun to have ideas and plans of his own” (The Hobbit, p. 259). Despite his growth and developing into a leader, Bilbo remained humble and caring, qualities that foster trust and teamwork.
Bilbo’s evolution in The Hobbit can serve as an example to encourage leaders to have courage, be adaptable and flexible, and open to personal growth. Also, we need to always remember to inspire our teams to do the same.
Courage and Wisdom Blended in Measure
Yesterday as part of my study of J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, I wrote about Bilbo Baggins becoming recognized as a leader in From Timid to Trusted: Humble Leadership. Toward the end of the book Gandalf told Bilbo, “You are not the hobbit that you were” (The Hobbit, p. 338). I loved this! It is such a great reminder from Tolkien that we are not the same person as we were before completing our most recent quest. For more about quests, read Quest or Adventure. We are ever changing, learning, and growing. Take a moment and reflect about the ways you are a different person today than five years ago.
Thorin told Bilbo, “There is more in you of good than you know, child of the kindly West. Some courage and some wisdom, blended in measure” (The Hobbit, p. 325) This also eludes to growth and change in Bilbo. Thorin believed that Bilbo’s true potential was greater than he understood, and he wanted to inspire confidence in him to face the challenges ahead. This moment underscores themes of self-discovery and recognizing one’s own worth.
“If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.”
~ Thorin, The Hobbit, p. 326
When Thorin said, “There is more in you of good than you know, child of the kindly West. Some courage and some wisdom, blended in measure,” he meant that Bilbo possessed the inner qualities of goodness, bravery, and intelligence.
Additionally, Thorin pointed out that Bilbo may not fully realize his own development. The phrase “blended in measure” suggested an harmonious combination of the qualities of courage and wisdom, balanced well within Bilbo. Thorin was acknowledging that Bilbo had the potential to be brave and wise in equal parts, and that those qualities are combined skillfully within him. It’s a heartfelt encouragement, emphasizing the inner strength and potential that Bilbo carries.
From Timid to Trusted: Humble Leadership
I am reading J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit right now and one of my favorite parts of the story is how Bilbo Baggins evolved from a humble hobbit into a brave and resourceful figure who takes on leadership qualities, especially as he led and assisted the dwarves during their quest to save Middle-earth. His growth into a leadership role is a significant part of his character development in the narrative. I love how Tolkien made Bilbo a humble leader.
Bilbo’s humbleness plays a significant role because it reflected his genuine character and growth throughout the story. His humility allowed him to stay grounded despite his unexpected heroism, making him approachable and relatable. It also enabled him to recognize his limitations, seek help when needed, and remain open to new ideas and challenges.
Moreover, his humility fostered trust and camaraderie among the company of dwarves and other characters, which was essential for their collective success. Ultimately, Bilbo’s humbleness highlighted that true leadership and heroism often stem from modesty, kindness, and a willingness to learn.
These qualities inspire others and lead to meaningful personal growth. One of my favorite quotes in the book is, “Already they had come to respect little Bilbo. Now he had become the real leader in their adventure. He had begun to have ideas and plans of his own” (The Hobbit, p. 259). Wouldn’t we all love to have this said of us?
This highlights the importance of humility and perseverance. Bilbo started as a humble hobbit but grew through his experiences. His journey, as created by Tolkien, showed that leadership and confidence can develop in unexpected ways, even in unlikely individuals. I really love that because, remember, I believe everyone is a leader. It also emphasized the power of cleverness, bravery, and taking initiative, as Bilbo’s ideas and plans proved crucial to the success of the adventure.
Leading With Love, Friendship, Purpose and Conviction
J. R. R. Tolkien did a masterful job of writing in a way that gives us lessons we can apply to our lives. I am a big believer in leaders showing love toward those we serve. That love is agape or charity. In The Gospel According to Tolkien: Visions of the Kingdom in Middle-Earth by Ralph C. Wood, Wood pointed out how Tolkien addressed friendship and love. First he points out a paradox, saying, “…when doing the most difficult things for the sake of the Good, they become astonishingly effortless.” Purpose and conviction can transform hardship into a noble, almost effortless pursuit.
“My yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:30)
Frodo’s journey to destroy the Ring is fraught with peril and hardship, yet his resolve is fueled by a desire to protect Middle-earth from evil. His commitment makes the difficult path seem less burdensome, as his motivation aligns with a higher purpose. Similarly, Gandalf’s sacrifices and bravery often appear effortless because they stem from his deep sense of duty and moral clarity.
The other important piece to this is how friendship and love come into play. Frodo’s friendship with Sam and Sam’s love for Frodo are also discussed. Sam described Frodo as a friend whose worth is beyond all estimate. This friendship is philia. In The Four Loves, C. S. Lewis pointed out that friendship is the one love that is not diminished when it is divided. I believe Tolkien was mixing two loves here reminding us the importance of relationships. In a friendship (philia) we also love in a charitable (agape) way wanting to help the other person be successful. I love how Tolkien showed how both loves can simultaneously be in practice.
It is also amazing that Tolkien had Sam actually say of Frodo, “I love him.” Merry and Pippin also get in on the act. Wood explained that in Merry said, “You can trust us to stick with you through thick and thin-to the bitter end. And you can trust us to keep any secret of yours-closer than you keep it yourself. But you cannot trust us to let you face trouble alone, and go off without a word. We are your friends, Frodo” (The Fellowship of the Ring, p. 115-16). We can learn from these characters that when undertaking challenging tasks driven by genuine goodness and in the company of friends, our efforts transcend mere struggle and feel almost natural.
Byron's Babbles 
leave a comment