“A leader who displays and acts with integrity can’t do so 99 percent of the time and still serve as an example. It’s 100 percent or nothing when it comes to illustrating for others what we hope they will emulate.” Reference: “What Does It Really Mean To Lead By Example?” (Admired Leadership Field Notes, Admired Leadership, published August 9, 2023, https://admiredleadership.substack.com/p/what-does-it-really-mean-to-lead?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email, p.1). This article is my reference for today FTL>
Pete Seger wrote a song, “Where Have All The Flowers Gone,” amongst many of his classics. Although written as an anti-war protest song, the question itself is haunting. Musical lyrics are always a reference for me. Many times they are pretty poignant and straight to the point.
But back to my quote from Admired Leadership. My question is: Where are all the ethics gone?” The Cadet Honor Code always governed my years in the military. “A Cadet does not lie, cheat, or steal, nor tolerate those that do.” Black and White; Ironclad, non-disputable definition of ethics. So… “Where have all the ethics gone?”
Admired Leadership has it SPOT ON! “Leaders” are under the microscope 24/7/365. 99% ethical conduct doesn’t cut it! Anything less than 100% is unacceptable. You’ve heard it before: “Talk the talk and walk the walk.” Ethics is what happens when nobody is looking. Ethics are constantly scrutinized. Leadership ethics are never missed by subordinates, teammates, or even casual observers.
Not to lean too far into the political, but look at the lack of character and ethics that is impacting political and military leadership. Need I say more?
#leadership #leadershipmatters #leadbyexample #ethics #character #leadershipdevelopment #leadershipcoaching #leadingwithhope
