In a world overflowing with leadership theories and management styles, it’s easy to get caught up in the latest trends. We chase acronyms and frameworks, hoping to unlock the secret to success.
But what if the most powerful, enduring leadership principle isn’t new at all? What if it’s as old as civilization itself?
I’m talking about virtue. Virtues are deeply ingrained, morally excellent habits. They are timeless, good, and true.
Honesty, fairness, integrity, justice, trust, empathy – these aren’t just admirable traits; they are the bedrock of effective, sustainable leadership. Why, then, wouldn’t we tap into these resources as the very foundation of how we make decisions and operate as organizations?
The “good leader” illusion: Why techniques aren’t enough
Good leadership styles, however polished, can be seen as artificial unless they’re first grounded in virtue. A leader who masters every communication technique and motivational trick in the book might achieve short-term success, but they’ll lack true influence.
"Virtue is crucial for effective leadership because it is a force guided by a desire for goodness, not recognition for profit. Virtue-inspired leadership is a commitment to treating your team as humans rather than as a means to an end."
Posting good quarterly numbers or implementing a successful policy change, for example, is only a part of your job as a virtuous leader. The other, arguably more important, role of a leader is to foster a team of innately good humans.
A virtue is more than just a positive characteristic or a fleeting good deed. A virtue is a quality developed over time through consistent practice — one that becomes part of who you are at your core, not just what you do.
Leading with virtue requires a continuous effort. For example, you can have “empathy,” but are you an “empathetic person?” Someone who has “empathy” can show it with a single act, but an “empathetic person” proves themselves over time through consistency. They become virtuous by habit.
Cultivating the core: The habit-forming power of virtue
Here’s the good news: virtues are not innate, fixed traits. Leaders can develop them through habit. This means that virtuous leadership can be strengthened and developed by anyone committed to the journey.
A truly good leader is measured not by their fancy title or the monthly financial reports, but by their virtue – by how they behave toward others instinctively, especially when confronted with challenges and difficult decisions. It’s in those moments that a leader’s true character shines through.
The business case for building a virtuous culture
Businesses led by virtuous leaders are more adaptable, resilient, innovative, and loyal. When leaders lack foundational virtues, organizations have less trust, lower morale, and uninspired employees.
Leaders who exemplify virtues consistently drive organizational success. Their integrity fosters trust and fairness among teams, and their courage inspires bold and curious employees who persevere through challenges. Their vision, rooted in virtues, ensures long-term sustainability.
Take small steps each day toward becoming the type of leader you want to be. Sometimes, just being aware of virtuous characteristics is enough to habituate lasting virtuous leadership.
If you’re ready to power your organization with leaders who care and deliver, we’re ready to guide you along the way. Schedule your FREE organizational development consultation today.
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Mike Donnelly is a recognized expert, keynote speaker, facilitator and consultant in customer service and leadership development. Leveraging 20+ years of experience from The Walt Disney Company, he and his team help destination location clients and clients in various customer-facing industries create customer loyalty to achieve positive business results. Learn more at www.DonnellyEffect.com.
