What is the motive? I often hear that line as I watch crime shows with my husband, a big fan. It seems to be the premise of the movie—the motive.
Even the Oxford Dictionary agrees
a reason for doing something, especially one that is hidden or not obvious.
"a motive for his murder"
Recently, I had the opportunity to dive into the pages of 'The Motive' by renowned leadership author Patrick Lencioni. In this book, Lencioni explores the concept of motive in the context of leadership, offering a fresh perspective on this intriguing topic. By his admission, after eleven or twelve business books on how to be a leader, this is the one you should start with first as it discovers why they wanted to be a leader in the first place.
It’s a fable that unfolds a day-long conversation between two rival CEOs, delving into why one aspired to be a leader and how the other became effective. Termed “his most gripping page-turner to date,” this book is not without its surprising revelations, leaving us in a state of 'we did not see that coming' intrigue.
What I love most about Lencioni’s writing is that he is a storyteller in a way that allows you to visualize these two men and the people they interact with as real people—their emotions, contemplation, reactions, and aha moments. He also provides action steps for behavioral changes to become a more effective leader. Lencioni outlines five approaches to the why.
It's easy reading as I completed it in two evenings, sitting in a plastic wading pool due to the heat, with a sandwich and ice water beside me. My husband laughed as he walked by, but it was my reading nook for two nights.
I agree with Lencioni that many leaders abdicate their most important responsibilities. They forget why they became leaders in the first place. He cites two types, but I will let you read that for yourself.
I was a little confused by Lencioni's trivialization of the servant leader's leadership style. He states that leadership should be “joyfully difficult and a selfless responsibility,” which I can agree with from personal experience. Still, he mentions not citing it as a leadership style in future leaders with the anticipated behavior change he outlined.
As a student of leadership development, I am a big proponent of authentic and servant leadership styles. Some say that authentic leadership has four main components:
· Self-awareness: Identifying and owning your strengths and growth areas.
Relational transparency: Being vulnerable with your team members and fostering positive relationships.
Balanced processing: Making decisions based on principle rather than short-term success.
Strong moral code: Embracing integrity and taking responsibility for your actions (Western Governors University).
Servant leadership is a philosophy that prioritizes serving others over gaining power or control. It focuses on creating an environment where employees can thrive and do their best work. Servant leaders believe that people have value beyond their contributions as workers and are committed to their personal, professional, and spiritual growth (Greenleaf, 1970).
Together, authentic servant leaders rely on internal values and external service. I like to believe I live this model daily, which is why I became a leader.
What She Said ~ Beverly
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