Intent or motive is a huge part of trust. The motive that inspires the greatest trust is genuine love. If you truly love someone, you will sacrifice whatever it takes to help make them to be successful. A leader that takes time to help their people succeed is a real loving leader. A sign of a true leader is when a leader could have been doing something to further their success and instead spent the time and energy to help make you successful. I took time to go rock climbing with my son not only because I love the adventure and risk of climbing, but I also did it because I wanted to be intentional about having man-to-man conversations with him. I could have done it in an email and saved the time for my own interests, but I love my son and sincerely want him to know that. I will sacrifice much for him even if it costs me.
True sacrifice is giving without expecting anything in return. No story in history tells of more sacrifice than the story in the Bible of God’s Son, Jesus Christ, who God sent to earth to die on a cross so that believers in him could have eternal life. That was the ultimate sacrifice. This came from God’s heart for His people. Having a true sacrificing heart for your people will elevate you to a new level with them.
Sacrificing for others, especially your people, not only builds trust in your department, but it also builds a culture of servant hood. Those people that witness your sacrifice will also be more inclined to sacrifice for others. This is why it is so important that true sacrifice starts at the top or an organization. John Maxwell says “The more rise in position and responsibility, the more you will have to sacrifice” (The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, pg. 222).
Ultimately, leadership is a decision. Leadership is a choice. Will you sacrifice for your people’s success or will they sacrifice for yours? Simon Sinek, in this edgy and riveting 45 minute video, explains how true leadership comes with a cost. You don’t want to miss it. I highly encourage you to find the time to watch it. You and your people will be glad that you did.
