In German, the translation of the word “Leadership” has a negative connotation.
This is different than here in the US where the word is typically looked on fondly.
I learned that last week when I interviewed my friends Dr. Dirk and Dr. Petra Frese on my CEO Show Podcast, who grew up on other sides of the Berlin Wall in West & East Germany in the 1960s.
Why does it have a negative connotation?
A man named Adolf Hitler.
Yes, he was a world-class leader.
It’s strange to hear him described that way, but it’s the truth.
Albeit, he was pure evil which is the 2nd truth.
As such, he used this powerful tool of “leadership” to negatively influence the hearts & minds of the Germans in the 30’s and 40’s to murder millions of innocent people.
So my leadership lesson today is one of perspective.
Leadership is a tool, like money or energy.
With a positive direction, they can build beautiful things.
With a negative direction, they cause destruction.
It’s the energy we put behind the tool that gives it meaning.
Today I share with you the reminder that Leadership is a powerful tool of influence.
I teach it because of the power.
However, my intent, like yours, is to use for the good.
Do so accordingly.
Onward.
