My thoughts on servant leadership.
Originally posted on Linkedin. But I can’t embed it. Grr. So here it is copied and pasted!
https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7229837381804118016
🌟 Servant Leadership: Leading with Heart and Purpose 🌟
In today’s fast-paced world, leadership is often associated with authority and control. But true leadership isn’t about being in charge; it’s about taking care of those in your charge. Servant leadership—a philosophy that prioritizes the growth, well-being, and empowerment of others—teaches us that a true leader is willing to be last.
Being last means putting the needs of others before our own, listening before speaking, and empowering those around us to succeed. It’s not about personal gain but about nurturing an environment where everyone can thrive, contribute, and feel valued. This hit home to me this morning while reading the book of Mark as part of my daily devotional. The sentence emphasized that true leaders are content to be last and a servant to all. Not just willing to be last, but content.
Something about the concept of being content to be last struck me in a new way today. We’ve all heard about servant leadership, and if you grew up in the South, whether in a church or not, you’ve probably heard that you must be willing to be last if you want to be first. But being willing and being content are very, very different.
As we start a new semester at Tarleton State University, we have the incredible opportunity to serve our students and each other. Maybe as we search for a parking place, wait for the light to change, or navigate construction zones, we can embrace this contentment, knowing that these small moments are signs of our community and university growing.
At Tarleton, this philosophy guides my approach every day. I strive to create a space where every voice is heard, every idea is valued, and every person feels excited to be part of something bigger. It’s not always easy, but the rewards are immense—because when we lift others up, we all rise together.
Leadership isn’t about titles; it’s about the impact we have on others. Let’s lead with heart, purpose, and a commitment to serving. Together, we can build a brighter future for all. 💜
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Emily Maxwell McLemore 