To guide and lead people is indeed a challenging task. A leader must understand the psychology of his team. It is important to grasp their state of mind. Without the knowledge of what motivates them, or their mindsets, to speak about high and lofty goals, will not be effective
A large majority of the workforce is not greatly motivated and are only interested in enhancing their salary and perks. Managing people is a great skill. In fact, of all the different types of management — money, time, and so on —personnel management is the most difficult. Generally. people do not like to be told they are wrong. An astute leader would say, “What you are doing is good, but try to do it another way. The benefit will be greater.”
Hence, one has to guide people judiciously; neither remain distant and aloof, nor be bossy and domineering. To inspire the leader must remain enthusiastic and active, and work joyously. To lead by example is the best way to guide others.
Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda presented the apt example of a huge procession, chanting slogans and marching ahead with enthusiasm. Their leader, suddenly, realises they are headed in the wrong direction. What should he do? If he were to stand in their way and shout, “O fools, where are you going? This is the wrong direction!” Would their momentum stop? They would march right over him! In such a situation, Gurudev advised the leader to maintain the lead and continue to walk in the same direction. Very gradually he must change the course and proceed in the right direction. People will just trail behind, because they have an innate tendency to follow. Therefore, leaders should enlighten people, but must first, appreciate the pace, ability and level of their team members.
A true leader neither takes everything upon himself, nor does he delegate everything! The principle of delegation is simple — never delegate that which you alone are supposed to do; and delegate everything that you should not be doing. It is crucial to identify the right, capable person to whom the work can be delegated. The leader must understand that no one is useless; every person has a special capability. A beautiful shloka in Sanskrit states: There is no letter in the alphabet that cannot become a mantra. There exists no root which cannot be used as a medicine. Likewise, there is no useless person. The scarcity is for the one who knows how to use them! Everyone is unique and capable. We have to understand the capability of that person.
A true leader understands very well the nature of his team members and guides them with unending patience so that the desired goal is achieved.
The author belongs to Chinmaya Mission
