Drop the EGO

Leadership must start with letting go of the ego.

So lets take it back a little - why did man crack the code of flying?

It's because once we surrendered to the idea and concept that gravity existed, we were able to understand how to work with gravity and thrust to create lift that evolved into flight. Before this, man refused to surrender to the existence of gravity. We worked tirelessly on defying gravity rather than acknowledging its existence.

The art of surrendering in leadership

Like surrendering to gravity for man to take flight, leadership requires us to surrender our egos. Yep, I said it: Leadership and Ego in the same sentence.

I am convinced that effective leadership has many facets, but one of the most crucial is the ability to let go of one's ego. This concept is exemplified in the leadership style of one of the most iconic figures in the tech industry, Steve Jobs. His approach to leadership at Apple offers valuable insights into how letting go of ego can build a strong and successful team.

Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, is often celebrated for his visionary ideas and relentless pursuit of innovation. However, one of his lesser-known but equally important qualities was his ability to recognise his limitations and surround himself with individuals who possessed expertise in areas where he did not. This humility and self-awareness were pivotal in Apple's rise to success.

It is believed that one of the core elements of Jobs' leadership was his willingness to "get out of the way." By doing so, he empowered his team to take ownership of their work and make decisions independently. This approach fostered a culture of trust and accountability, where team members felt valued and motivated to contribute their best efforts.?

In contrast - when leaders micromanage or dominate decision-making processes, they stifle creativity and innovation. Jobs understood that by stepping back, he allowed his team to thrive and bring their unique skills to the forefront.

Additionally, Jobs was adept at establishing a shared vision and goal for his team. He communicated a clear and compelling vision for Apple, one that resonated with his employees and customers alike. This shared vision acted as a guiding star, aligning everyone's efforts towards a common objective. When team members understand and believe in the overarching goals, they are more likely to collaborate effectively and work towards the collective success of the organization.

Another significant aspect of Jobs' leadership was his commitment to developing his team. Rather than taking the easy route and going easy on his employees, he challenged them to grow and improve continuously. He set high standards and pushed his team to exceed them, fostering a culture of excellence. By investing in his team's development, Jobs ensured that Apple had a pool of highly skilled and motivated individuals who could drive the company forward.

This approach contrasts sharply with leaders who let their egos dictate their actions. Leaders who are unwilling to acknowledge their limitations or delegate responsibilities often create toxic environments where employees feel undervalued and disengaged. In contrast, Jobs' ego-less leadership style cultivated a sense of belonging and purpose within his team, leading to higher productivity and innovation.

2024, 48 years after Jobs started the success of Apple under his stewardship during his leadership and the legacy he left behind can be attributed to his ability to let go of his ego. By surrounding himself with talented individuals, getting out of their way, establishing a common vision, and focusing on their development, Jobs created a strong and dynamic team.?

This approach not only has propelled Apple to unprecedented heights but also serves as a valuable lesson for leaders in any industry. Letting go of ego is not a sign of weakness; it is a testament to one's confidence and commitment to the organization's greater good.