You’ve got this desire to make a difference. It seems like everyone else is getting involved in their communities, creating the social change you want to initiate. You find yourself often wondering if there is a set of principles these social leaders live by.
If this describes how you often feel, chances are you are a budding social leader. Social leaders look differently at the world around us. Where other people see problems and hardships, social leaders see opportunities for change and contribution.
Five Principles Social Leaders Live Their Life By
And yes there are guiding principles social leaders live by…
Social Leaders Live in Submission
Social leaders believe in and submit to a higher power. You can call higher power by whatever name you feel comfortable with, but the one common characteristic is, it provides inspiration, guidance and stability.
Social Leaders Live in Connection
Social leaders live a life of connection with themselves, their surroundings and their community. Self-connection brings greater self-awareness, helping them to change themselves first and then to focus on changing others or society. Through changing themselves, social leaders change the world.
Social Leaders have a Calling
Social leaders have a deep sense of purpose and calling. Their life mission or calling is often aligned with the social change they want to bring about. Their calling is the main source of their motivation. Neglecting their calling means the status quo will remain and as a result someone will continue to suffer.
Social Leaders Take Action
Social leaders bridge the gap between what is and what should be, through taking action. They are visionary, yet grounded in reality, idealistic but practical. Because they are action orientated, they trigger progress.
Social Leaders Believe in Liberty
Social leaders work to improve society. They have a vision of a free and open society, based upon voluntary relationships and transactions. They will therefore never use force or coercion to effect changes in people and societal conditions. They truly lead, making use of persuasion, kindness, and long-suffering to influence others for good.
Which of these principles do you practise on a regular basis in your leadership?
Which of these principles do you need to develop more in your life?
Do you have any more to add?
Adapted From: Social Leadership: a Fresh Vision for Old Problems by The Centre for Social Leadership