Two weeks ago, I attended the local simulcast of Leadercast, a day long, global event with a full slate of speakers presenting ideas about leadership.

With his nearly permanent grin and infectious giggle, one of the most delightful speakers of the day was Archbishop Desmond Tutu.  The archbishop was a 1984 Nobel Peace Prize laureate for his work against apartheid. He continues today as a human rights activist, currently serving as the chairman of the Board of Elders, a nonpartisan group of global statesmen working against injustice and for positive change.

The archbishop spoke a bit about his friend, Nelson Mandela, holding him up as “the start of any discussion about selflessness and servant leadership.” He also shared his thoughts on the important role that leadership plays in driving change, describing good leaders this way:

  • Good leaders listen.
  • Good leaders are accountable.
  • Good leaders have nothing to hide.
  • Good leaders lead because they know the way.
  • Good leaders know when to retire. (Followed by a literal doubled-over belly laugh; he’s 82 and has no plans to retire!)

Maybe we should add… Good leaders have a sense of humor!

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Tuesday Tidbits are weekly messages I send to my leadership team. They are generally short & sweet, often focused on leadership or teamwork, always positive and, hopefully, motivational. I hope you also find some meaning in them.

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