The essence of leadership lies not in how much value people give to us but in how much value we can bring to their lives. Leadership is about adding value to others, not seeking validation for ourselves. While many aspire to be leaders in their social or professional circles, they often believe they lack the position necessary for leadership. However, true leadership does not require a position—it requires a disposition.

Without the disposition of leadership, even those in leadership positions can cause disruption. If we consider a four-quadrant diagram with position on the x-axis and disposition on the y-axis, we can categorize leadership as follows:

1. Bottom-right quadrant: Position without disposition.

2. Bottom-left quadrant: Neither position nor disposition.

3. Top-left quadrant: Disposition without position.

4. Top-right quadrant: Both position and disposition.

 

Among these, the most effective leaders are in the top-right quadrant, possessing both the position and disposition of leadership. They can effectively use their power to influence, guide, and shape others while setting a positive example, as emphasized in the Bhagavad-Gita (3.21).

The danger of position without disposition

Leaders in the bottom-right quadrant, with position but lacking disposition, are the most dangerous. They abuse power for selfish, shortsighted, or even self-destructive purposes, driven by personal grievances, grudges, or fantasies. Their sole criterion for interacting with others is whether they are valued or respected, leading them to surround themselves with sycophants and persecute dissenters. These individuals undermine teams, suppress constructive criticism, and fail to create an environment where others can grow.

The ineffectiveness of neither position nor disposition

Those in the bottom-left quadrant lack both the position and the disposition of leadership. They are unlikely to accomplish anything significant, whether constructive or destructive. They may remain confined to their mental cocoons, contributing little to the world around them. To lead a life of significance, they need to cultivate at least some disposition of leadership, moving toward the top-left quadrant.

The potential of disposition without position

Individuals in the top-left quadrant possess the disposition of leadership but lack the position. Many of us may find ourselves here—wanting to serve and add value but not having significant influence or authority. Rather than resenting the lack of a leadership position, we can focus on leveraging the resources we do have to assist others, guide them, and facilitate their growth. By cultivating the disposition of leadership, we can make a substantial impact and may eventually be entrusted with positions of leadership.

The ideal quadrant: Position with disposition

Those in the top-right quadrant possess both the position and the disposition of leadership. They combine external stature and power with an internal attitude of service. These leaders bring value to others’ lives by creating support systems, offering training, and mentoring others constructively and effectively. They represent the ideal balance of leadership qualities.

Examples of the four quadrants

Position without disposition: Dhritarashtra and Duryodhana, who misused their power and caused widespread harm.

Neither position nor disposition: Many of Duryodhana’s brothers, who unquestioningly supported their wicked sibling despite their royal birth.

Disposition without position: Vidura, the wise minister who used his insight to offer guidance despite lacking authority.

Position with disposition: Yudhishthira and Arjuna, who combined their roles as leaders with virtuous intentions and actions.

The Bhagavad-Gita stands ready to guide us toward unleashing our leadership potential. Wherever we currently fall within these quadrants, we can aim to develop the disposition of leadership and eventually move toward a position of constructive influence.

Summary:

  • Leadership combines position (external stature and power) with disposition (internal aptitude and attitude).
  • The most effective leaders have both position and disposition, while the most destructive lack disposition despite having position.
  • Cultivating the disposition of leadership allows us to grow in influence and effectiveness, even without an official position.

Think it over:

  • What do the position and disposition of leadership mean to you?
  • How can you practically cultivate the disposition of leadership?
  • Can you identify individuals in each of the four quadrants to better understand their actions? Where do you currently fall, and how can you progress?

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03.21 Whatever action a great man performs, common men follow. And whatever standards he sets by exemplary acts, all the world pursues.