How to Be a Leader

How to Be a Leader Plot Summary

Introduction

Leadership has always been a complex art, balancing power with responsibility, ambition with service, and personal goals with collective welfare. Throughout history, the most effective leaders have understood that true leadership transcends mere authority—it requires wisdom, character, and a profound commitment to something greater than oneself. The challenges facing modern leaders may seem uniquely contemporary, but the fundamental principles that guide exceptional leadership have remained remarkably consistent across millennia. The ancient world offers us a treasure trove of leadership wisdom that remains surprisingly relevant today. From Athens to Rome, visionary leaders navigated political complexities, managed diverse populations, and made decisions with far-reaching consequences—all without modern technology or management theories. Their successes and failures provide valuable lessons for anyone seeking to lead with purpose and integrity in today's equally challenging environment. By exploring these timeless principles, we can discover how ancient wisdom can illuminate our modern leadership journey.

Chapter 1: Cultivate Virtue as Your Foundation

Leadership begins with character. The most effective leaders throughout history have understood that virtue forms the essential foundation upon which all other leadership qualities must rest. This principle recognizes that what a leader is fundamentally shapes what a leader does—and ultimately determines their impact and legacy. The ancient philosophers understood this profoundly. They observed that leaders who lack internal discipline become slaves to their own passions and impulses, rendering them incapable of clear judgment in matters of state. Pericles of Athens exemplified how personal virtue translates into effective governance during Athens' Golden Age. Unlike many contemporaries who sought popularity through extravagant displays, Pericles maintained remarkable self-discipline. He avoided excessive drinking at banquets, spoke with measured restraint rather than inflammatory rhetoric, and dedicated himself to philosophical study under Anaxagoras. This commitment to personal development enabled him to make decisions based on principle rather than expediency, even when facing public criticism. When the Peloponnesian War began and citizens questioned his strategy of restraint, Pericles did not yield to pressure for immediate military action. Instead, he patiently explained his long-term vision, demonstrating how wisdom allows a leader to see beyond immediate gratification toward sustainable solutions. His ability to maintain composure during crisis stemmed directly from his philosophical foundation and commitment to virtue. To cultivate virtue-based leadership in your own life, establish a regular practice of philosophical reflection. Set aside time daily to study the writings of great thinkers and contemplate how their insights apply to contemporary challenges. Develop the habit of questioning your own assumptions and examining the ethical dimensions of decisions before you make them. Surround yourself with advisors who will speak truth rather than flattery, creating an environment where wisdom can flourish. Remember that virtue in leadership is not an abstract ideal but a practical necessity. When facing difficult decisions, ask yourself not "What will make me popular?" but rather "What action best serves justice and the common good?" This orientation toward virtue rather than expediency distinguishes the statesperson from the mere politician and provides the foundation for truly impactful leadership. The cultivation of virtue requires constant vigilance and self-examination. Like Pericles, who transformed his entire demeanor—walking slowly, speaking gently, and maintaining a composed appearance—recognize that your character is revealed in every action, however small. The leader who makes virtue their foundation builds a leadership style that can withstand the inevitable storms of public life.

Chapter 2: Master the Art of Persuasive Communication

The power of speech is fundamental to effective leadership. While character forms the foundation of a leader's influence, the ability to communicate persuasively transforms that influence into action. The most successful leaders throughout history have understood that neither character nor communication alone is sufficient—both are essential components of leadership excellence. Even the greatest kings of ancient times, who commanded respect through their royal robes, scepters, and bodyguards, recognized the importance of being "speakers of words." They understood that persuasive communication was necessary to tame "the arrogance and violence of the people" and to guide them toward better decisions. Pericles exemplifies this principle perfectly. Under his leadership, Athens was "in name a democracy, but in fact it was government by the leading man" thanks to his extraordinary speaking ability. His political rival Thucydides once remarked about Pericles' persuasive skills: "Whenever we're wrestling and I throw him down, he argues that he wasn't thrown, persuades the spectators, and wins the match!" This remarkable ability to shape perception through communication brought not only glory to Pericles but salvation to Athens during critical moments. By contrast, Nicias shared Pericles' political vision but lacked his persuasive abilities. Attempting to guide the people "with his speech as though with a feeble bit," he failed to control them and was carried away by their violence to Sicily, where he met his demise. As Plutarch notes, "by the ears is just how one must control the people and a city." The contrast between these two leaders vividly illustrates how communication skills can determine the success or failure of even the most well-intentioned leadership. To develop your own persuasive communication skills, begin by studying your audience carefully. Understand what motivates them, what concerns them, and how they prefer to receive information. Practice articulating complex ideas in accessible language without oversimplification. Work on developing what Aristotle called "ethos"—the credibility that comes from demonstrated knowledge, good character, and goodwill toward your audience. Prepare thoroughly before important communications. The most persuasive leaders make their words seem effortless, but this apparent ease typically comes from rigorous preparation. Study examples of effective political communication throughout history, noting how great leaders balance logical argument with appropriate emotional appeal. Remember that persuasive communication involves listening as well as speaking—create opportunities for genuine dialogue where others can express concerns and contribute ideas. The art of persuasive communication serves as a powerful tool for uniting people around a shared vision and mobilizing them toward collective action. By mastering this essential leadership skill, you transform good intentions into meaningful impact and create the conditions for lasting change.

Chapter 3: Build Bridges Through Political Friendships

Effective leadership requires the cultivation of meaningful relationships across lines of difference. The most successful leaders understand that political friendships—relationships based on mutual respect and common purpose despite disagreements—are essential for achieving lasting results in any complex environment. Plutarch criticizes both extremes in approaching political relationships: Cleon, who dissolved all his friendships upon entering politics, believing they would compromise his judgment; and Themistocles, who declared he would never sit on a throne that prevented him from giving more to his friends than to others. Both approaches ultimately undermined their effectiveness as leaders. The wiser path is exemplified by Phocion and Cato, who brought no personal enmity to their political disagreements. They remained stubborn and immovable in political contests only when protecting the public welfare, but handled personal differences with their opponents humanely and calmly. They understood that political opposition need not become personal animosity. This principle was dramatically demonstrated when Themistocles and Aristides, bitter rivals in Athenian politics, were sent together on diplomatic missions. Despite their ongoing competition at home, they set aside their hostility when representing Athens abroad, recognizing that their personal rivalry must not interfere with their service to the city. Similarly, during the war against Mithridates, Cretinas of Magnesia offered to yield leadership to his rival Hermeias or to take command himself while Hermeias withdrew, understanding that their continued competition might destroy their city during a crisis. These examples show how political friendships can transcend personal differences when the common good demands it. To build effective political friendships in your own leadership context, begin by separating people from positions. Recognize that someone can disagree with your approach without being your enemy. Practice the discipline of addressing ideas rather than attacking character when differences arise. When opponents say or do something praiseworthy, acknowledge it sincerely—this builds credibility for your criticisms when they are necessary. Create informal opportunities to connect with those who hold different views. Many political friendships throughout history developed through shared meals, walks, or other activities outside formal settings. These contexts allow for more authentic communication and the discovery of common ground that might remain hidden in more adversarial environments. Remember that building political friendships requires genuine respect for others' perspectives. Even when you disagree strongly with someone's position, try to understand the values and concerns that underlie their viewpoint. This understanding creates the possibility of finding unexpected areas of agreement or developing compromise solutions that address core interests on both sides. The cultivation of political friendships transforms leadership from a zero-sum competition into a collaborative enterprise focused on the common good. By building bridges across differences, you create the conditions for sustainable progress that survives beyond any single leader's tenure.

Chapter 4: Balance Delegation with Personal Involvement

Effective leadership requires striking a delicate balance between personal involvement in every detail and appropriate delegation. The most successful leaders throughout history have understood that neither micromanagement nor complete detachment serves the organization well—wisdom lies in knowing when to take direct control and when to empower others. Plutarch offers a middle path between two extremes. Some leaders, like Cato, involve themselves in every aspect of governance, believing good citizens should never abandon their concern for any part of the state. Others, like Pericles, reserve themselves for only the most important matters, comparing themselves to the Athenian state ships that were launched only for essential missions. The wisest approach combines elements of both—maintaining awareness of all aspects of governance while focusing personal attention where it will have the greatest impact. Pericles exemplifies this balanced approach perfectly. He employed Menippus for military leadership, worked through Ephialtes to check the power of the Areopagus council, passed the decree against Megara through Charinus, and sent Lampon to establish the colony at Thurii. By distributing power among many people according to their talents, he not only reduced envy but also accomplished more effectively what needed to be done. Like a ship pilot who manages the tiller personally but directs other equipment through subordinates, Pericles maintained overall control while leveraging the strengths of those around him. The opposite approach—attempting to handle everything personally due to "an insatiable desire for glory or power"—inevitably leads to failure. Leaders who apply themselves to tasks for which they are neither naturally talented nor trained invite criticism and undermine their own effectiveness. As Plutarch notes, "just as the division of the hand into fingers does not render it weak but instead makes it a usable and practical instrument, so those who share political power with others make the work of government more effective by their cooperation." To apply this principle in your own leadership, begin by honestly assessing your strengths and limitations. Identify the areas where your personal involvement truly adds unique value, and focus your attention there. For other responsibilities, find people whose talents complement your own and empower them with both authority and resources to succeed. Develop clear systems for maintaining awareness without micromanaging. Regular updates, well-designed metrics, and occasional direct observation can provide the information you need without undermining others' autonomy. Remember that effective delegation requires both initial training and ongoing support—people need to know not just what to do but why it matters and how their work connects to the larger mission. The art of balancing delegation with personal involvement allows you to leverage the full potential of your team while preserving your energy for the most critical leadership functions. This balance creates an organization that benefits from diverse talents while maintaining coherent direction—the hallmark of truly effective leadership.

Chapter 5: Practice Virtuous Leadership in Every Action

The essence of leadership lies not in grand declarations or elaborate ceremonies, but in the consistent practice of virtue through everyday actions. True leaders understand that their character is revealed most clearly in the small decisions they make when no one seems to be watching. Plutarch emphasizes that politicians must cleanse themselves of all blame and slander by maintaining impeccable personal conduct. He recounts how the Roman tribune Livius Drusus, when offered a service to make parts of his house less visible to neighbors for five talents, replied: "Take ten, and make my whole house visible, so that every citizen may see how I live my life." Drusus understood that transparency in personal conduct builds the trust essential for public leadership. His willingness to have his private life open to scrutiny demonstrated confidence in the alignment between his public positions and personal behavior. The contrast between virtuous leaders and tyrants is stark and revealing. Epaminondas, when the Thebans appointed him to an insignificant office to insult him, declared that "not only does an office bring distinction to a man, but a man also brings distinction to an office." He transformed that minor position into one of honor through his approach to service. Meanwhile, tyrants like Clearchus of Heraclea Pontica lived in constant fear, sleeping in a box like a snake, and Aristodemus of Argos slept in a room accessible only through a trap door, with his mistress's mother removing the ladder each night. This difference stems from their fundamental orientation: virtuous leaders fear doing harm more than suffering it, while tyrants fear their own subjects. As Plutarch observes, "kings are afraid for their subjects, while tyrants are afraid of their subjects." The former act out of concern for those they protect, like "dogs keeping careful watch over flocks in the pen," while the latter act only to preserve their own power. To practice virtuous leadership in your own context, begin by examining your daily habits and routines. Recognize that seemingly minor choices—how you speak to subordinates, whether you take credit or give it, how you respond to criticism—collectively define your leadership character. Develop the discipline of acting with integrity even when it would be convenient to compromise. Create accountability structures that help maintain your ethical standards. Identify trusted colleagues who will speak truth to you, and regularly seek their feedback on your leadership behavior. Establish personal practices that reinforce your commitment to virtue, such as regular reflection on your actions and their alignment with your stated values. Remember that virtuous leadership means governing yourself before attempting to govern others. Like a builder's rule that must be straight before it can align other objects, leaders must "first achieve governance of themselves, straighten out their souls, and set their character aright" before they can effectively lead others. This self-governance creates the foundation for authentic leadership that inspires rather than compels.

Chapter 6: Serve the Community Before Self

The highest principle of leadership is placing the welfare of the community above personal gain. This "community before self" philosophy distinguishes true leaders from mere power-seekers and forms the foundation of legitimate authority in any context. Cato the Elder exemplified this principle throughout his political career. When his fellow citizens had abandoned themselves to drunken festivities, he alone kept watch over the city's weapons and walls. When asked why, he explained that he remained sober and vigilant so that others could enjoy themselves. Similarly, at Utica, after arranging for his companions to escape by sea following their defeat, Cato returned to his quarters and took his own life, teaching by example that a leader's ultimate responsibility is to those they serve. These actions demonstrated his fundamental understanding that leadership is about service rather than privilege. This selfless approach stands in stark contrast to those who enter leadership positions for personal advancement. Plutarch warns against those who "throw themselves into public affairs and occupy themselves with politics to pass the time" or who seek office to enhance their reputation. Such individuals inevitably become disappointed when they discover the burdens of leadership outweigh its rewards. Their focus on personal benefit rather than public service undermines their effectiveness and ultimately their satisfaction. The proper motivation for leadership is captured in Plutarch's account of a Roman official who, when asked about public works he was building, declared: "I'm not building these things for myself, but for my native city." This statement reflects the understanding that leadership is fundamentally about service to something larger than oneself—a principle that applies in every leadership context from government to business to community organizations. To cultivate this orientation in your own leadership, begin by regularly reflecting on your motivations. Ask yourself what truly drives your desire to lead—is it primarily about personal advancement or genuine service? Practice the discipline of putting organizational needs before personal preferences, even when this requires personal sacrifice. Develop the habit of giving credit to others for successes while accepting responsibility for failures. Create opportunities to connect directly with those you serve, listening to their needs and concerns without defensiveness. This connection helps maintain focus on the real impact of your decisions rather than abstract metrics or personal advancement. Remember that serving the community before self doesn't mean neglecting your own wellbeing—sustainable service requires appropriate self-care—but it does mean consistently prioritizing collective welfare in your decision-making. The leader who genuinely places community before self creates a culture of service that extends far beyond their own actions. By modeling this priority consistently, you inspire others to transcend self-interest and contribute to something greater than themselves—perhaps the most important legacy any leader can leave.

Chapter 7: Find Strength in Philosophical Resilience

Leadership inevitably brings challenges, setbacks, and criticism that test even the strongest character. The most effective leaders throughout history have developed philosophical resilience—the ability to maintain equilibrium and purpose amid the inevitable difficulties of public life. At its essence, philosophical resilience means developing an internal compass that remains steady regardless of external circumstances. It requires cultivating what the Stoics called "apatheia"—not apathy in the modern sense, but freedom from being dominated by destructive emotions while maintaining appropriate concern for matters of genuine importance. This philosophical foundation provides stability when everything around the leader seems uncertain or hostile. Cato the Elder exemplified this philosophical resilience throughout his long political career in Rome. Though he faced fierce opposition from powerful families who resented his reforms and austere lifestyle, Cato remained undeterred by their attacks. When prosecuted in court nearly fifty times by political enemies, he successfully defended himself in every case without losing his composure or compromising his principles. On one occasion, a political opponent spat directly in his face in public, seeking to humiliate him. Rather than responding with anger or seeking revenge—responses that would have been considered normal in Roman society—Cato simply wiped his face and continued with his duties, saying, "I will deny to anyone who claims you can spit that they have any spit in their mouth." This remarkable restraint demonstrated his philosophical understanding that another's disrespectful action reflected on the perpetrator's character, not his own worth. To develop this kind of resilience in your own leadership journey, establish regular practices of philosophical reflection. Study the writings of thinkers who offer practical wisdom for maintaining perspective amid challenges. Develop the habit of distinguishing between what you can and cannot control, focusing your energy on the former while accepting the latter. Create personal rituals that help maintain your center during turbulent times, such as daily meditation, journaling about leadership challenges, or regular conversations with trusted mentors. Practice reframing setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than as personal failures. When facing criticism, train yourself to ask, "What can I learn from this?" rather than immediately becoming defensive. Remember that philosophical resilience is not about becoming detached or unfeeling—it involves directing your emotional energy toward constructive purposes rather than being consumed by anger, fear, or despair. The philosophically resilient leader provides stability for others during uncertain times. By maintaining your own equilibrium amid challenges, you create a sense of confidence and purpose that helps your entire organization navigate difficulties more effectively. This resilience ultimately allows you to persevere through obstacles that would defeat others, transforming potential failures into opportunities for growth and renewal.

Summary

The principles explored throughout this journey represent not just ancient wisdom but timeless truths about effective leadership. From cultivating virtue as our foundation to finding strength in philosophical resilience, these approaches transcend historical context to offer guidance for leaders in any era. As Plutarch observed, "The purpose of political life is not to win applause but to improve the condition of the people"—a reminder that true leadership always focuses on service rather than self-advancement. The path forward begins with honest self-examination. Consider which of these principles most challenges your current leadership approach, and commit to specific practices that will help you embody that principle more fully. Whether you lead a small team or a large organization, remember that leadership development is never complete—it remains a lifelong journey of growth, reflection, and renewed commitment to serving others with wisdom and integrity.

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Plutarch

Plutarch (later named, upon becoming a Roman citizen, Lucius Mestrius Plutarchus; AD 46–AD 120) was a Greek historian, biographer, and essayist, known primarily for his Parallel Lives and Moralia. He is classified as a Middle Platonist. Plutarch's surviving works were written in Greek, but intended for both Greek and Roman readers.

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