People who become leaders solely because they desire power or wealth often lead their companies down perilous paths, marked by scandal, high employee turnover, and corruption. The only way to sustain success at your organization is if you, as the leader, are willing to make personal sacrifices for the company’s good.
As you rise in leadership, your responsibilities increase as your rights decrease. Think about it: can you expect your employees to work long hours, give up their vacation time, or stay focused around the holidays if you, as their leader, aren’t willing to do those things?
It’s your job as their leader to embody the qualities you want to see; among them is dedication. There’s no more significant way to show your commitment to the company than through the Law of Sacrifice. Maxwell writes about four critical aspects of the Law of Sacrifice:
The first question you need to ask yourself as a leader is this: How much are you willing to sacrifice for your company? If you’re not willing to work more than 40 hours a week, accept a pay cut, or forgo your vacation time, that’s fine, but you need to acknowledge that your career advancement will be limited.
If you are determined to advance, could you list the things you are NOT willing to sacrifice? This could be your health, marriage, or time with your kids. Then, what do you have to give up? Can you give more time, energy, or resources to boost the organization’s success? What do you have to offer?
Finally, remember that the sacrifice never ends to be a great leader. Many assume that once they get that next promotion, their routine can return to “normal.” Being a great leader means continually sacrificing to become your best version. That’s at the heart of the Law of Sacrifice.
Sacrifice is necessary if you want to grow as a leader. If you’re struggling with this concept, fill out my contact form, and let’s talk about how the Law of Sacrifice will be more than worth it in the end.
Coach Dave
Watch the video below for more information on John C. Maxwell and why I like this book so much.
Click here to read more articles in my “Laws of Leadership” series.
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