Greetings Leaders!
This is the ninth posting in The Path of the Honorable Leader series.
The Honorable Leader searches for enlightenment. He knows that once he feels he has arrived, that he has failed. A Leader’s journey is a never ending quest for knowledge and understanding. Enlightenment. The closer a leader comes to enlightenment, the farther it becomes. What does this mean in reality?
A leader must never stop asking questions as there is always something new to learn. There is science, history, math and business to be sure. But leadership is more than knowledge. It is understanding. The successful leader will become a student of the most difficult art. The art that separates a great leader from an average one. This art is the study of people. Building relationships. Motivating people. Helping others to succeed. The Honorable Leader constantly pursues self-improvement.
Here are some thoughts on Wisdom and Enlightenment:
Proverbs: The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Confucius: By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest
Lao Tsu: Knowing others is wisdom. Knowing yourself is enlightenment.
Buddha: To enjoy good health, to bring true happiness to one’s family, to bring peace to all, one must first discipline and control one’s own mind. If a man can control his mind he can find the way to Enlightenment, and all wisdom and virtue will naturally come to him.
Sensei Ueshiba (Founder of Aikido): Always keep your mind as bright and clear as the vast sky, the great ocean, and the highest peak, empty of all thoughts. Always keep your body filled with light and heat. Fill yourself with the power of wisdom and enlightenment.
Related articles
- What is Enlightenment? (Kant) (english.upenn.edu)
- What’s Your Path To Enlightenment (everydaygyaan.com)
- Workplace Trust – Cultivating Leaders (leadchangegroup.com)
- Deepak Chopra On Enlightened Leadership (blogs.forbes.com)
