"Servant leadership is all about making the goals clear and then rolling your sleeves up and doing whatever it takes to help people win. In that situation, they don't work for you; you work for them."
-Ken Blanchard
1. Knowledge: Take the time to research basic facts about the project you are involved in. Make a list of the key players and experts in the field. Take the time to understand the challenges that surround the main issue. This will equip you with the information you need to be a better advocate or volunteer for the cause that you are involved in. It will allow you to assess your ability and capacity to get involved. Community work is rewarding and fulfilling but it can also feel emotionally draining and mentally exhausting if you are directly impacted by the issue. Do not allow the issue to consume your life or become so emotionally attached that you are unable to think clearly and objectively or be impartial. Pace yourself while you research and gather the facts. Do not try to be the expert or learn everything but stay up to date. Knowing the issue qualifies you to provide your insight and decide how you can be most effective.
2. Dedication: It is important to remain committed and learn how to navigate obstacles. Creating the change we wish to see in our world, does not come without push back. Not everyone will agree with you or share the same perspective. There will be doubters, trolls online, and people who will challenge you. There might also be systemic barriers or laws that make it difficult to create positive change. Community work requires unwavering dedication and a team that shares the same dedication. The more people that are dedicated to one cause is the more you can amplify your cause. Dedication fuels momentum and can inspire others to join your cause.
3. Empathy: The ability to put yourself in someone else’s shoes will help you to see things from their perspective. It removes judgments and misguided assumptions. Empathy is where you will develop compassion for the people you serve and gives you the motivation to keep pushing your cause forward. It allows you to serve the community from a genuine and selfless place. Empathy sparks ideas for practical solutions and can help you to see the bigger picture. Whether you want to give back by volunteering your time, donating money, get involved in causes you sincerely care about.
4. Servant Leadership: This type of leadership has been clearly demonstrated by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, who believed that “everyone can lead because anyone can serve.” This comes from having a deep sense of compassion, and social awareness. It means to have a deep desire to make the world just and equal. It means to be sensitive to injustices such as social, economic, health, or environmental inequities. It is the ability to roll your sleeves up to get the job done. It means to replace ego with humility. Taking the initiative to help others, even when it is challenging or unpopular.
These 4 pillars are common within many global movements and charitable causes. I have been volunteering for various community initiatives for most of my life. Each time I volunteer, these 4 pillars serve as my guiding principles. When I reflect on these pillars, it reminds me of why I initially got involved giving back to the community. Being connected to a cause greater than yourself gives you purpose and allows you to add value to society. Serving the community can be emotionally and physically draining, especially if you are directly impacted by the cause you are involved in. It is important that know your limit and are aware of what you can handle. Be aware of how much can you get involved and do not over commit or extend yourself. Always practice self-care to avoid burn out. Surround yourself with a strong support system and people are genuine, humble, honest, and passionate. Do not hesitate to delegate tasks or ask for help. Have a teamwork mindset and be selfless with your giving. Reflect on this ancient proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
By Stacey Ann Berry, Author & Speaker