We have all heard the phrase “our fearless leader.” Perhaps we have said it earnestly or recall it from a rousing toast (perhaps turned roast). The first time it is applied to us….WOW!
Past colleagues were very kind in applying this phrase to me, and it has spurred me to pause and reflect. I share these thoughts for other budding leaders like myself….
Origins
I first became intrigued by the word "fearless" my senior year of high school; thank you, Mrs. Kegel. With the world at one’s doorstep, twisting the doorknob can be daunting. The courage to live boldly and specifically in English class, to write fearlessly was empowering. It often required daily reminders.
Growth of Understanding
In the years following, I have found myself drawn to quotes about this theme. In particular, I am fond of these famous quotes:
While fear is a valid human emotion and its presence in our reptilian brain can serve us well at times, on a regular basis, one can find peace and take confidence in the fact that all we can do is our best in each moment…and that is enough. We can weather whatever storm comes if we handle what is in our control, not trouble ourselves with what is not and lean on grace and Divine Providence for the rest.
Doubt & Truth
With the above background and philosophical context in mind, let’s circle back to the daunting and humbling phrase – “fearless leader.”
What makes someone a fearless leader?
Is it someone who is willing to fight for his/her team? Someone willing to do the unpopular? Take on a monstrous task because it is the right thing to do?
Shouldn’t each of these supposed qualifiers simply form the definition of a “leader”? What about any of that earns the “fearless” distinction? Perhaps this phrase has risen in popularity because true leadership – the kind that inspires – is more rare than we care to admit.
I grapple with the ideas of fearless leadership because all leaders have a duty to care for and serve their teams and those for whom the team’s work supports. That is the job, the duty, the call – plain and simple. As Simon Sinek would say:
Much of leadership is about faking it until you make it, being the leader you wish you had and doing what is best because you care more about the good you are pursuing rather than fearing the personal risk you are taking.
Finally, I have reservations about the misnomer that the term fearless leader implies because leaders are not without fear; we are human, too. We do not think that much of what we do is courageous. However, the use of this term reminds leaders that what they do is valued and prized by their teams. This phrase speaks more of gratitude than it does of personal achievement. The leader is not special; the team and the relationships formed are!
To the Point
I would propose the value and wise use of this term is the needed reminder that serving as a leader requires courage, self-sacrifice and humility. Being “fearless” is a daily choice to which to recommit ourselves.
Fearless leadership is far from a passing compliment; it is a call to action.
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