‘ We need
leaders not in love with money but in love with justice. Not in love with
publicity but in love with humanity.’
Dr Martin Luther King Jr was a young preacher at a church
in Atlanta. Little did he know that the
world was about to change around him. Dr King was unexpectedly chosen to
protest against racial discrimination. It wasn’t his dream, nor did he wish to
hold a role that he wasn’t prepared for or sought. He took his stand and led
the protest like a true king despite all of that. The protest became a turning
point in his life. He became the world-famous civil rights leader that fought
for racial equality in the United States.
To this day, Dr Martin Luther King Jr is admired and will always be known as one of the most incredible humans in world history. He was one of the most outstanding leaders who fought peacefully and was against racism. Here are the top three qualities and leadership skills we can learn from Martin Luther King Jr.
Communication Is The Key
Dr Martin Luther King was an amazing communicator, speaker, and strong writer. His ‘I Have a Dream Speech’ is still heard and talked about today. Such simple messages of racism, dreams, and goals were delivered through the speech that inspired over 200,000 people. Effective communication is an important leadership skill and characteristic that every leader should possess. Through effective communication, leaders will share their goals and vision with their team. A leader who communicates and delivers messages effectively inspires the team to work comfortably.
Never Stop
Learning
Dr. King never stopped gaining knowledge and picking up new
skills. All the knowledge and skills he gained were put into good use. How is
lifelong learning beneficial when it comes to leadership? Lifelong learning is
when you use the knowledge you have gained to help people solve problems and
inspire them to do the same. Do not be afraid or be stingy to share your skills
with others. Your skills could inspire others to do their best in their designated
fields. In return, you will be surprised at how much you can learn from others.
Consider it a win-win situation. You teach, and in return, you gain a new
skill.
Acknowledge
Your Team
Many leaders fail to acknowledge their team after a
successful meeting. Dr. King acknowledged the sacrifices made by his followers
in one of his speeches during the fight for freedom. A good leader acknowledges
his/her team’s hard work and is the best motivator, encouraging them to provide
a better outcome. Always acknowledge their contribution and hard work. Be a
great example to them.
Words by: Lohashri Palraj
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