Leadership Lessons from Mahatma Gandhi

Gandhiji was not a born leader!

He did not have a vision of becoming a leader or a 'Mahatma' in his childhood.

If we read his biography “My experiment with Truth", we see young Mohandas as ordinary as any one of us,  but the difference is that he was constantly shaping himself. As he quotes, “Infinite striving to be the best is man’s duty. It is its own reward, everything else is in God’s hands”

His focus was on ‘Self’, he developed moral strength, principles and values such as “Truth”, “Simplicity”, “Humility”, “Peace & Harmony”, “Hard work”, “Respect for every living being”.

Because of the kind of person he became, he could not close his eyes to the injustice that was happening around him, be it in South Africa or in India. With the purity of his nature and courage to stand by the truth, he rose to the occasion and was 'accepted as leader'.

There is a difference! He did not become leader, but he was accepted as a leader. He did not represent any position, but his life was an example for his followers. As his own quote says, “I suppose leadership at one time meant muscles, but today it means getting along with people”. So his whole effort was in relating to people, becoming one among them. We all know how he did this.

He also said “One ounce of practice is worth more than tons of preaching”

So as he said “My life is my message” is very apt as a leader.

Yet again he says, “Power is of two kinds, one that is obtained by fear of punishment and other by acts of love and he puts the later at higher value”

So, we all know what has been his achievement as a leader. Let us look at how we can adapt from his leadership style.

1.    Focus on principles, values and shape yourself first. That is the foundation

2.    Self-reflection and self-correction (Highest court of justice is “Conscience”)

3.    Demonstrate your values, principles in your life at home, at work

4.    Take courage, speak up when you know something is not right. Rest will follow

5.    Learn to get along with people. Focus on power that comes from acts of love not by authority.

By: Lavina Cardoza

The author is a development sector professional with focus on training and development. Women’s empowerment is area of special interest to her.