Lead, But Why?

The Shakespearean phrase “Uneasy lies the head that wears the crown” captures the essence of the burden of leadership. Leading requires a blend of virtues such as courage, resilience, determination, commitment, compassion, and empathy. True leaders often prioritise the needs of their team or organisation above their own. The best leaders lead by example, inspiring others through their actions and decisions. This exemplary behaviour creates a ripple effect, influencing the culture and practices within organisations, communities, and even families.

However, leadership is a demanding role that often comes at a personal cost. Historical and contemporary examples highlight the personal sacrifices made by leaders. Gandhi, revered as a Mahatma, faced criticism for neglecting familial duties. Indra Nooyi, a prominent corporate leader, has openly acknowledged the challenges women face in balancing leadership roles with personal responsibilities.

Despite these challenges, leadership remains a coveted role. This raises the question: Why do people aspire to lead, knowing the immense sacrifices it entails? Beyond the allure of fame, money, and power, there is a deeper motivation. Many leaders, especially entrepreneurs, are driven by a vision to create a better world. They see leadership not merely as a position of authority but as a means to bring about meaningful change in the world. Steve Jobs, for instance, envisioned a future where technology, design, and business intersected seamlessly, revolutionising human interaction with technology. Gandhi led a country to freedom, instilling a new confidence in Indian society through unique values and ideals. Elon Musk has challenged the norm across industries such as mobility, space exploration, energy, artificial intelligence, digital communications.

For entrepreneurs and founders, leadership is the natural outcome of their desire to realize their vision. They lead teams and organizations that share their values and goals, working collectively towards a common purpose. The true reward of leadership lies in the ability to make a significant impact on the ecosystem they operate in and leave a lasting legacy.

While I am no Musk or Gandhi, I have reflected on my motivation to lead. For me, work is a medium through which I meet brilliant people, foster meaningful relationships, grow with each experience, and accumulate priceless wisdom. The journey is as important as the destination. In my current journey as an entrepreneur, I aim to build an organisation that creates “khushali” or prosperity for all associated with it — customer, vendors/ suppliers, teams, investors, partners and communities alike.

Being in a consumer business is in fact a great blessing. It keeps me “foolish” and “hungry”. The urge and the fear of missing a trend, not being relevant constantly ensure that I constantly remain in touch with ground realities. This keeps me on the edge and constantly reminds me that this is my “raison d'etre”.

Understanding your motivations can help one become a more effective and fulfilled leader. After all we spend so much of our waking state making choices, taking decisions and leading. As you reflect on these thoughts, consider your own motivations. Why do you choose to lead? What drives you to take on the challenges and responsibilities of leadership? Would love to learn and reflect…

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