Lessons in Leadership and Life from Nelson Mandela

The simple definition of leadership is the power or ability to lead other people. But leadership is anything but simple.

“A good leader can engage in a debate frankly and thoroughly, knowing that at the end he and the other side must be closer, and thus emerge stronger. You don’t have that idea when you are arrogant, superficial, and uninformed.” – Nelson Mandela

Great leaders fight for and support those they lead. They often fight for a cause with passion and determination. And they inspire others to do the same. They aren’t afraid to take controversial positions on topics or push for positive change. Nelson Mandela was one of these great leaders.

That’s what a great leader does – they inspire a group of people to want to achieve great things.

Nelson Mandela, from a prison cell, inspired people around the world to support the anti-apartheid movement. “Free Mandela” was often shouted in protests – protests that were organized by people who never met him. But, yet, they believed in him and thus what he stood for – equality!

Although he died in 2013 it’s difficult not to reflect on how his leadership continues to inspire other great leaders. Including leaders of color. Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and Colin Powell have all spoke of how Mandela influenced not just their life, but also their careers, through his persona and leadership.

So how was Nelson Mandela able to lead and influence so many people to support his cause? Why was he such a great leader? And how can you learn those lessons to inspire people around you to do great things?

Transparency: Great leaders are honest, open, and transparent. They share their passions and make no excuses for supporting the causes they believe in. Mandela was in fact so transparent, his words and actions to support his cause, landed him in prison. No wondering where he stood on the matter of freedom and equality. This transparency inspired followership. Whether leading in politics or in business, when making strategic decisions, determining changes, or facing issues that impact citizens, employees, or followers, successful leaders are transparent in why they believe in a cause and why they make certain decisions. They’re open with their sense of purpose, thought process, and actions. And how those may directly impact others.

Compassion: The basis of good leadership is honorable character and selfless service; something Mandela had in abundance. Great leaders have compassion and empathy for people and the betterment of their personal situations. When leaders show empathy, compassion, and understanding, it becomes easier for people to notice that they are interested in them and concerned for the greater good. And these types of leaders don’t come off as self-serving and aloof. They are genuine, sincere, and authentic. They care about those they lead and those they lead care about them.

Awareness: Successful leaders have a heightened level of self-awareness; they have an understanding of themselves, their behaviors and actions, and how those behaviors and actions are interpreted by, and directly impact, those they inspire or lead. Mandela had a great awareness of his way of being, his patience, calm confidence, forgiveness, and humor all helped to increase his followership – helping to gain support in achieving his goals and making a positive impact. Be proficient and competent, know yourself and your strengths and weaknesses. Take responsibility and lead by example. Always be open to further growth and learning.

Mandela modeled great leadership. He made a difference. And he left a legacy to be proud of.

To demonstrate good leadership one doesn’t have to inspire a political movement. Being a good leader can start at home or in your office. And who knows where it may take you from there!

About Scott Span, MSOD, CSM: is CEO & People Strategist, Communications and Change, at Tolero Solutions. He supports clients to engage and retain talent and wow customers, achieving success through people, creating organizations where people enjoy working and customers enjoy doing business.

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