Leadership and Character

By Hamza Shayk August 18, 2023

August 18, 2023

Dear Leaders,

Pop quiz: What’s the most underrated component in leadership today? It’s not charisma. It’s not strategy. And no, it’s not even about being a “thought leader” (whatever that means).

It’s Character.

Character is that silent pulse beneath every decision, every interaction, and every pivotal moment in leadership. It’s the unsung hero behind every groundbreaking idea, and the unspoken code that distinguishes a true leader from a mere decision-maker.

Let’s get something clear: Leadership, in its essence, is about more than just decision trees and PowerPoint presentations. It’s about people, the messy, unpredictable, and unique beings that they are. And to lead them, you have to understand them, to feel what they feel, and to anticipate not just market demands, but human needs.

Character: The Unseen Compass

Every time we talk about great leaders, whether they’re in the tech industry, politics, or art, we tend to focus on their achievements. But here’s the game-changer: What made them remarkable isn’t just what they did but how they did it. And that ‘how’ is all about character.

1. Integrity: This isn’t just about being honest. Be congruent. Ensure your actions match your words. Howard Schultz, the man behind Starbucks, could’ve easily settled for the typical corporate route. But he believed in “people over profits.” Offering health benefits to part-time employees wasn’t just a strategy; it was a testament.

2. Empathy: Real leadership is about connection. Nelson Mandela stands out not because he championed against apartheid, but because he actively sought to understand and reconcile both sides. That level of empathy? It’s not mere strategy; it’s soul.

3. Responsibility: Here’s the truth bomb: Leadership is as much about owning failures as it is about celebrating successes. Take Admiral McRaven’s advice about making your bed. Make the daily commitment to responsibility, even in the tiniest acts, paving the way for bigger achievements.

But, of course, with the sun, comes the shadow.

The Flip Side of the Character Coin

1. Deceit: Ever heard of the Theranos scandal? Elizabeth Holmes promised a healthcare revolution. The technology seemed magical. But behind closed doors, it was smoke and mirrors. She might have had a vision, but she lacked the character to make it a truthful one.

2. Manipulation: The fall of Enron was more than just a financial disaster. It was a tragedy of character. It was a lesson in the costs of dishonesty and the repercussions of leadership that loses its moral compass.

3. Overconfidence: There’s a thin line between confidence and hubris. Travis Kalanick, the maverick behind Uber, drove his company to incredible heights. But that very drive, unchecked by humility, became a pitfall. Feedback isn’t just numbers on a graph; it’s the universe telling you there’s room to grow.

So, why does all this matter? Why should you care about character in the era of algorithms and data-driven decisions?

Because algorithms don’t inspire people. Character does. Data doesn’t fuel revolutions. Passion, integrity, and genuine vision do.

You see, leadership without character is empty. It’s a flash without substance, a sizzle without the steak. As we navigate this chaotic, unpredictable world, our teams, our peers, our communities are looking for beacons. And a beacon, dear leaders, isn’t defined by its height but by its light.

Next time you’re aiming to lead, to inspire, or simply to make a difference, pause for a moment. Reflect on the ‘how.’ Dive deep into the realm of character. Because when you lead with character, you don’t just chart a course; you illuminate it.

In the grand theatre of leadership, Character isn’t just an act; it’s the entire play.

Play it well.