Balancing Life and Leadership, Reflecting on Legacy and Machiavellianism

Finding Balance and Reflecting on Legacy

This past week has been a bit of a struggle for me, mentally and physically. I’ve been feeling drained, like my energy levels just aren’t where they need to be. Maybe it’s the changing weather or just one of those phases, but it’s becoming clearer that I could really use a break—more time off than I’ve historically given myself. I’ve always been the type to push through, rarely taking extended time away from work, but as I get older, I’m recognizing that rest isn’t just nice to have; it’s essential.

I’ve been daydreaming about what the perfect amount of time off would look like: maybe 12 weeks a year—4 weeks in the summer, 4 in the winter, and 2 each in spring and fall. It’s a fantasy that feels just right, balancing time to unwind, catch up on life’s errands, connect with family, and enjoy life a little. I’ve got some time off coming up soon around the holidays, but the close proximity of Thanksgiving and Christmas makes me wish these breaks were more evenly spaced throughout the year. The truth is, regular, meaningful breaks are not just luxuries—they’re key to maintaining mental health, clarity, and growth. It’s something I’m learning to prioritize for myself.

This past weekend was also a time for reflection. My wife’s best friend lost her mother, and attending her ceremony brought up a lot of thoughts about life, purpose, and legacy. She was in her early 70s, relatively young in today’s world, and her passing was a stark reminder of how fragile life can be. It made me think deeply about what kind of mark we leave on the world and what it really means to leave a legacy.

So often, we hear about legacy in terms of money, fame, or getting a street named after us—but those things fade. Names are forgotten, buildings change, and accolades don’t tell the whole story of a life lived. The real legacy we leave is in the impact we have on others, the way we show up, the kindness, empathy, and compassion we extend to those around us. It’s about the everyday interactions and the small, consistent acts of humanity that linger in the memories of those we touch.

This has been on my mind as we dive deeper into our series on toxic leadership and the Dark Triad traits. It’s a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t about the title or the recognition; it’s about who you are when no one’s watching. It’s about striving to be better, to do better, and to leave the world a little kinder than we found it.

As we move into this week’s focus, let’s keep these reflections close. Life is short, and how we spend our time—both at work and in our personal lives—matters deeply. Let’s make it count.

Deep Dive: Week 3 of Dark Triad Leadership – Machiavellianism in Leadership

This week marks the third installment of our eight-week exploration into the Dark Triad traits in leadership, focusing specifically on Machiavellianism. This is more than just a theoretical discussion; it's a topic that resonates deeply with me for several reasons, and I believe it's crucial for all of us to understand its impact on both personal and organizational levels.

Why This Matters: A Confluence of Ethics, Integrity, and Awareness

With the upcoming election on the horizon, the importance of ethical leadership has never been more pronounced. While I won't dwell on specific political figures, it's evident that certain leaders exhibit traits that seem counterproductive to unity and progress. These traits often mirror the Dark Triad characteristics, leading to divisiveness and a breakdown in trust. My hope is that by shedding light on these behaviors, we can foster a greater awareness that influences not just our workplaces but also our choices at the ballot box.

This series is also a call to reflect on the broader ethical landscape of leadership today. We’ve all seen leaders who claim to act with integrity and ethical principles, but their actions reveal something much darker—a self-serving, toxic agenda that often goes unchecked. It’s easy to fall into the trap of cognitive dissonance, ignoring the disconnect between what leaders say and what they do. My hope is that by digging into these toxic traits, we can all become more aware, more discerning, and more equipped to push back against them.

Ethics and integrity are at the core of effective leadership. It's concerning to see instances where individuals profess ethical standards yet act in ways that contradict those values. This disconnect can create cognitive dissonance—not just in themselves but also in those who look up to them. By exploring Machiavellianism, we aim to highlight these inconsistencies and encourage a deeper self-reflection.

Awareness is the first step toward change. Many people are affected by toxic behaviors without even realizing it, or they may dismiss such actions as simply "how things are done." This week, we strive to raise awareness about Machiavellian tactics so that you can recognize them and make more informed decisions, whether you're navigating office politics or larger societal issues.

Empowerment Through Understanding

One of my goals with this series is to equip you with the tools to combat toxic leadership. Knowledge is empowering, and by understanding the mechanisms behind Machiavellian behavior, we can collectively work to diminish its influence. It's about standing up against manipulation and fostering environments where integrity and psychological safety are prioritized.

On a personal note, this topic hits close to home. As I've grown, I've noticed that some individuals I once respected—whether in my personal life or in the public sphere—exhibit behaviors that are not only toxic but also detrimental to collective progress. It's disheartening to see how such attitudes can stifle innovation, suppress potential, and negatively impact the well-being of others. This realization has strengthened my resolve to advocate for better leadership practices that uplift rather than undermine.

What to Expect This Week

Machiavellianism: Why This Matters Now

Machiavellianism is especially dangerous because it often flies under the radar. These leaders don’t always show their cards upfront; they manipulate from the shadows, using charm, deceit, and strategic maneuvering to get what they want. The impacts are profound: a culture of distrust, ethical compromises, and long-term damage to organizational health.

This week, we’ll explore several aspects of Machiavellianism in leadership:

• Monday (9/23/2024): Defining Machiavellianism in the Workplace We’ll start by defining what Machiavellianism looks like in a modern context. We’ll discuss the origins of the term and how this “ends justify the means” mentality manifests in corporate settings. Understanding these foundational elements helps us recognize these behaviors in our own environments.
• Tuesday (9/24/2024): Machiavellian Tactics in Organizational Politics On Tuesday, we’ll dive into the tactical side of Machiavellianism. Leaders who embody this trait are adept at strategic manipulation—controlling information, leveraging power networks, and using charm or false promises to achieve their ends. This discussion aims to highlight the often hidden, yet deeply corrosive, impact of such tactics.
• Wednesday (9/25/2024): The Ethical Implications of Machiavellian Leadership Wednesday’s focus is on ethics, or the lack thereof, in Machiavellian leadership. We’ll weigh short-term gains against long-term costs, exploring how these leaders undermine trust, transparency, and ethical standards. We’ll also look at real-world examples of how these behaviors have led organizations into scandal and crisis.
• Thursday (9/26/2024): Recognizing Machiavellian Behaviors Recognizing these behaviors isn’t always easy—they often manifest subtly in everyday interactions. Thursday’s post will cover how to spot the signs of Machiavellianism, the ways these leaders adapt their tactics, and how to distinguish strategic thinking from manipulative behavior. This is about building awareness and learning to identify red flags before they escalate.
• Friday (9/27/2024): The Long-Term Consequences of Machiavellian Leadership Finally, on Friday, we’ll address the long-term fallout of Machiavellianism. It’s not just about immediate ethical compromises; it’s about the slow, steady erosion of organizational culture, values, and creativity. These leaders often leave a trail of distrust and dysfunction that stifles innovation and harms everyone involved.

Connecting the Dots

By exploring these topics, we're not just educating ourselves about a psychological trait; we're taking a stand against the normalization of toxic behavior in leadership roles. This series aims to trigger self-awareness—not only in recognizing these traits in others but also in reflecting on our own actions. Are we contributing to a culture of manipulation, or are we championing integrity and empathy?

I encourage you to engage with these daily posts actively. Share your thoughts, experiences, and insights. Together, we can build a community that not only recognizes the importance of ethical leadership but also takes actionable steps to promote it.

Moving Forward Together

Understanding Machiavellianism is a step toward creating spaces where everyone feels valued and safe to contribute their best. It's about dismantling the barriers that hold people back and fostering an environment where psychological safety is paramount. By becoming more aware, we empower ourselves and others to challenge the status quo and promote positive change.

As we delve into this week's content, let's keep in mind that the legacy we leave is shaped by how we treat others and the values we uphold. Leadership is not about wielding power over others; it's about guiding, supporting, and inspiring those around us.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. Let's make this week a catalyst for awareness, growth, and meaningful change.

Embracing Integrity and Building a Better Future Together

As we wrap up this week's focus on Machiavellianism in leadership, I invite you to carry these reflections with you—not just as abstract concepts but as lenses through which to view our daily interactions and the broader world around us. We've delved into the shadows of toxic leadership traits, but in doing so, we've also illuminated the path toward more ethical, compassionate, and effective leadership.

It's easy to feel overwhelmed when confronted with the prevalence of manipulative behaviors, whether in the workplace, in politics, or even within our personal circles. But remember, awareness is the first step toward change. By recognizing these traits and understanding their impact, we empower ourselves to make different choices—to lead with integrity, to foster environments of psychological safety, and to uplift those around us.

A Call to Action: Be the Change You Wish to See

Each of us has the potential to influence our environments positively. Leadership isn't confined to titles or positions; it's reflected in our actions, our words, and how we treat others. Consider how you can incorporate empathy, transparency, and ethical principles into your daily life. Small acts of kindness and integrity can ripple outward, creating a more supportive and collaborative atmosphere for everyone.

If you find yourself in a position where you're affected by toxic behaviors, know that you're not alone. Seek out allies, communicate openly, and don't be afraid to set boundaries. Your well-being and peace of mind are important, and sometimes taking a stand can inspire others to do the same.

Looking Ahead: Continuing the Journey Together

Our exploration doesn't end here. In the coming weeks, we'll continue to unpack the remaining facets of the Dark Triad traits, delving deeper into how they manifest and, more importantly, how we can counteract them. It's a journey of self-discovery as much as it is an examination of external behaviors.

I encourage you to engage with the upcoming posts actively. Share your thoughts, your experiences, and your insights. Let's learn from one another and build a community committed to fostering positive change.

Taking Care of Yourself Along the Way

As we navigate these complex topics, don't forget the importance of self-care—a theme that resonated in the opening of this newsletter. Just as we need time to rest and recharge physically, we also need to nurture our mental and emotional well-being. Whether it's taking that much-needed vacation, spending quality time with loved ones, or simply allowing yourself a moment of peace amidst the chaos, prioritize what replenishes your spirit.

Final Thoughts: Crafting Your Legacy Through Everyday Actions

Legacy isn't built in grand gestures or monumental achievements alone; it's woven through the everyday choices we make and the way we touch the lives of others. By committing to lead with authenticity and integrity, we contribute to a legacy that transcends titles and outlasts any fleeting recognition.

Let's make a conscious effort to be the kind of leaders—and the kind of people—who inspire positive change, who listen more than we speak, and who value collaboration over competition. In doing so, we not only enrich our own lives but also pave the way for others to thrive.

Wishing You a Week of Insight and Growth

Thank you for being part of this journey. Your willingness to engage with these challenging topics gives me hope for the future of leadership and our collective ability to effect meaningful change.

Here's to a week filled with reflection, purposeful action, and the courage to lead with heart and integrity. Let's continue to support one another as we strive to make a lasting, positive impact in our workplaces, communities, and beyond.

Take care, stay curious, and let's make this week count!

Edward Schaefer