Hallway Consulting Group

What Modern Leaders Can Learn from Independence Day

As we celebrate Independence Day, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the qualities that defined the leaders of the American Revolution. Courage, integrity, and vision were the cornerstones of their leadership, and these same qualities are essential for modern leaders aiming to make a significant impact. Yet, aren’t we asking ourselves – is that what I see around me? It is certainly not what the media wants us to think is the norm.  I recently finished John C. Maxwell’s “High Road Leadership,” his latest book release.  The book emphasizes how vital ethical and courageous leadership is to the success of our organizations and our country. By drawing parallels between the revolutionary leaders and Maxwell’s teachings, we can uncover timeless lessons to inspire us as we lead our teams.

Ethical Decision-Making

The American Revolution was a defining moment in United States history, marked by the unwavering ethical stance of its leaders. They chose the difficult path of standing up against tyranny, driven by a commitment to higher principles and the pursuit of justice. Similarly, “High Road Leadership” underscores the importance of ethical decision-making as a fundamental aspect of effective leadership.

Maxwell states, “Integrity is the foundation upon which trust is built. Without it, no leader can be successful” (High Road Leadership, p. 23). This quote highlights the crucial role of integrity in establishing trust and credibility. Great leaders must prioritize ethical behavior, even when faced with challenging circumstances. They will not only earn respect but also create a culture of trust and accountability.

The Founding Fathers exemplified this principle through their commitment to the ideals of liberty and justice. They understood true leadership involves making decisions that align with moral values, even at significant personal risk. We see this around us today. A leader who makes a difficult decision can often find themselves in deep peril. Social media is relentless and frequently produces small snippets of the entire story, specifically spun to shape the narrative someone wants to portray. Bad news travels quickly and can easily get out of hand. Good news and strong moral decisions often go unnoticed.  Or those with the best intentions get molded negatively. It makes us believe most people lack good values or can apply the principles of moral leadership. In reality, it is just not as newsworthy.  Why do you think that is?

Visionary Leadership

A clear and compelling vision was instrumental in guiding the American Revolution. The Founding Fathers envisioned a nation built on the principles of freedom, equality, and democracy. Their ability to articulate and rally support around this vision was crucial in mobilizing a diverse group of colonists toward a common goal. In “High Road Leadership,” Maxwell emphasizes the importance of visionary leadership in driving meaningful change.

Maxwell writes, “Leaders see more and see before others do. They possess a vision that allows them to navigate through uncertainty and lead with confidence” (High Road Leadership, p. 47). This quote underscores the significance of foresight and strategic thinking in leadership. Visionary leaders identify opportunities and challenges ahead and inspire others to work toward a shared future.

The revolutionary leaders’ vision for an independent nation was a powerful motivator, uniting people from different backgrounds and regions. Similarly, modern leaders must craft and communicate a vision that resonates with their team members.  It’s taken me some time to wrap my head around the importance of inspiration as a leader. I often see the bigger picture, which helps me find meaning and purpose in my work – no matter how mundane the task is. I just assumed everyone else did, too. Leaders need to keep casting the vision, helping people see the possibilities! If your team has their head down getting work done, you need to help them take a breath and see how vital their contribution is to the overall goal. It’s easy to lose sight of the goal when you keep looking down. What great leaders do is help their team look to the horizon and move in the same direction.

Courage in Action

Courage is very likely the most defining trait of the leaders who fought for American independence. Despite the odds, their willingness to stand up against a formidable empire exemplifies the essence of courageous leadership. Maxwell’s “High Road Leadership” emphasizes that true leaders must have the courage to make difficult decisions and the ability to take bold actions to pursue their vision.

Maxwell asserts, “Courage is not the absence of fear, but the determination to do what is right despite the fear” (High Road Leadership, p. 89). This quote encapsulates the idea that courageous leadership involves facing fears and challenges head-on. It requires a steadfast commitment to doing what is right, even when it is uncomfortable or risky.

The Founding Fathers’ courage was evident in their willingness to risk their lives, fortunes, and reputations for the cause of independence. Their actions were driven by a deep-seated belief in the principles they stood for. Great leaders can learn from their example by demonstrating courage in their decisions and actions. This might involve taking calculated risks, challenging the status quo, or standing up for what is ethically correct in the face of opposition. Most of us will never face the daunting challenges our Founding Fathers faced, but some days, it definitely feels like it. How often do we feel as if we are swimming upstream or fighting what seems impossible odds to move our organizations to a better place? Changing markets, new customer requirements, and increasingly changing technologies change everything – often faster than we can keep up with! There’s usually no time to “get comfortable” with anything. But we only grow outside our comfort zone, right?

As we commemorate Independence Day, reflect on how the principles of high-road leadership apply in your daily life. 

1. Ethical Decision-Making: Consistently prioritize integrity in your actions. This involves transparent communication, accountability, and a commitment to ethical standards. 
2. Visionary Leadership: Craft a compelling vision to guide your team through uncertainty and change. Think strategically, have empathy, and understand your team’s needs and aspirations. Remember, it’s not about you.
3. Courage in Action: Make tough decisions and take bold steps. Embrace challenges. Complaining or avoiding them will not make them disappear. Help your team view them as opportunities for growth and innovation. 

In honor of the Founding Fathers, strive to lead with the same courage and vision that defined their remarkable journey toward independence. I believe we were all made for this moment! It may be challenging, but nothing worthwhile is ever easy.arkable journey toward independence.

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“In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock.” ~ Thomas Jefferson, third president of the United States