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The Unsung Hero: How Temperance Can Make YOU a Leader Worth Following

In the high-pressure world of business, leaders are often bombarded with demands, forced to make split-second decisions, and constantly facing uncertainty. It's no wonder that emotions can run high, and sometimes, the quest for success can lead to rash decisions and unethical behaviour. 

What if there was a secret method that could help you navigate these challenges with a cool head, make sound choices, and inspire unwavering trust in your team?  Enter temperance, the often-overlooked Stoic virtue that could be your leadership superpower.

Temperance isn't about deprivation or suppressing your emotions. It's about mastering self-control, achieving a balanced mind, and prioritizing effectively. Temperance is the art of saying "no" to distractions and impulsive actions, and instead, focusing your energy on what truly matters for your business and your team. Here's how temperance can transform you from a leader who - barely gets by to a leader who truly inspires:

1, Become the Eye of the Storm - Be Calm

Markets can be volatile, deadlines can loom large, and unexpected setbacks are inevitable. But a temperate leader remains calm and collected amidst the storm. They don't panic or make rash decisions fueled by fear or frustration. Instead, they approach challenges with reason and focus. This unwavering composure fosters a sense of stability within the team, allowing them to function at their best even when things get tough.

Imagine a critical project facing a major roadblock. A leader lacking temperance might react by barking orders, micromanaging every detail, or even assigning blame. However, a temperate leader inspires confidence by taking a step back, analyzing the situation calmly, and involving the team in finding creative solutions. Having worked for both types of leaders, trust me the latter type of leader usually gets better results and the organisation benefits. The former leadership style leads to running in crisis mode, staff burnout and ultimate project failure. The controlled approach fosters a sense of trust and psychological safety, allowing your team to innovate and overcome obstacles effectively.

Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, is a great example of a leader who embodies temperance under pressure. When he took the helm in 2014, Microsoft was struggling to keep pace with the changing tech landscape. Nadella remained calm and collected, refusing to be swayed by panic or negativity. Instead, he focused on fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation, ultimately leading Microsoft to a successful turnaround.

2. Achieve Laser-Sharp Focus on the road ahead

Every notification, email, and social media update can pull your attention away from what truly matters. A temperate leader understands the power of prioritization. They ruthlessly avoid distractions and chasing every fleeting opportunity. This allows them to dedicate their energy to the most important goals, ensuring the business stays on track and achieves its full potential.

Think about the leader who constantly jumps from one project to the next, never truly finishing anything. This lack of focus not only hinders their own effectiveness but also creates a sense of chaos within the team. A temperate leader, on the other hand, sets clear priorities, avoids multitasking, and delegates effectively. This laser-sharp focus translates into a culture of efficiency and productivity, propelling the business forward with a clear direction.

Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors, exemplifies the power of focus. When she took over in 2014, GM was reeling from a major recall crisis. Barra remained focused on the long term, prioritizing safety and investing in electric vehicles. This unwavering commitment to a clear vision helped GM not only weather the crisis but also emerge as a leader in the future of transportation.

3. Build Trust In the Team

Trust is the bedrock of any successful team. But trust can be easily eroded by impulsive decisions, unethical behavior, or broken promises. A temperate leader prioritizes integrity and fairness in all their actions. They are known for their consistency, their commitment to doing the right thing, and their ability to control their emotions. This unwavering commitment to ethical conduct builds a deep well of trust with employees, clients, and partners.

Imagine a leader who makes promises one day and changes their mind the next. This inconsistency erodes trust and creates a sense of uncertainty. A temperate leader, on the other hand, is known for their honesty and transparency. They are upfront about challenges, keep their word, and treat everyone with respect. This foundation of trust fosters a sense of loyalty and psychological safety, allowing your team to take risks, collaborate effectively, and ultimately achieve greater success.

Jacinda Ardern, Prime Minister of New Zealand, has garnered international acclaim for her ethical and empathetic leadership. During the Christchurch mosque shootings in 2019, Ardern displayed remarkable compassion and composure, uniting the nation and earning the trust of citizens around the world. Her commitment to ethical conduct and her ability to connect with people on an emotional level has made her a role model for leaders everywhere.

4. Temper Your Ego, Unleash Your Team's Potential

Micromanagement or a domineering leadership style may seem like effective ways to maintain control, but they ultimately stifle creativity and innovation. A temperate leader understands that their true strength lies in empowering others. They are self-aware of their limitations and strengths, and they are not afraid to delegate tasks and responsibilities. This focus on collaboration allows each team member to contribute their unique talents and perspectives, leading to a more innovative and dynamic work environment.

Think about a leader who insists on doing everything themselves, refusing to delegate or trust others. This leads to burnout for the leader and stunts the team's growth and development. A temperate leader creates a space where everyone feels valued and empowered. They provide clear direction and support and give the team the autonomy to make decisions and take ownership of their work. This fosters a sense of trust, accountability, and ultimately, a more successful and engaged team.

5. Lead by Example, Not by Tantrum

Leaders who struggle with emotional control can create a toxic work environment. Anger outbursts, frustration, and blame games can damage morale and erode trust. A temperate leader, on the other hand, manages their emotions effectively. They calmly get on with the job in hand and focus on building a strong team and the team's needs rather than their own. 

Jesen Huang, CEO of Nvidia demonstrates being a successful leader. Huang has built a strong team around himself by leading by example and demonstrating the values and behaviours he expects from his team. His passion, dedication, and integrity inspire employees to strive for excellence and help the company become a Global Leader.

In summary, to be a temperate leader, stay calm, focus on the road ahead, build trust with your team and become part of your team if you want to be a successful leader.

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Temperance - the scecret sauce