Courage through Service (Excerpt from the book, The Five Insights)
Vision is certainly a desirable thing for a leader to have. But Courage Through Service is the insight that turns that vision into reality. When leaders have vision, they must also have an innate belief in their ability to attack a problem and make it better. That innate belief is confidence. When an enduring leader has confidence and a desire to make a difference in whatever way he can, magic happens.
Confidence without direction is hubris. The desire to make a difference without confidence is just a fantasy. Together, they inspire. Nothing motivates employees like working for or with a leader who is inspired to make a difference. The sheer force of their conviction and will enrolls and attracts those around them. Nothing builds confidence like trying something difficult or risky and succeeding at it. The better we become at trying difficult things, the more capable we feel and the more willing we are to try something challenging again. Research shows that confidence can be developed.One of the best ways to develop it is through a mindset of service to others.
Leaders who possess this insight have learned to temper their desire to make a difference with an understanding that things happen when opportunity and timing converge. Until timing and opportunity do converge, they provoke opportunity by doing things that serve others.
