NR
Inspiration for this thought piece is attributed to Ray Blunt’s work, “Getting Ahead without Tooting Your Own Horn,”
In theory, we agree that self-aggrandizing leaders are repulsive, but in practice, we are all tempted to put ourselves squarely in the spotlight. In our zeal to be admired, we may choose to crusade our personal cause rather than the mission of our company. The choice between humility and self-promotion is a central drama in J.R.R Tolkien’s Fellowship of the Ring.
In the Fellowship of the Ring, the fate of Middle Earth revolves around the magic Ring. Forged by the dark lord, Sauron, the Ring’s potency is too powerful to be safely wielded for the purposes of good. Preying upon the pride of its bearer, the Ring poses a corruptive strength too great to be controlled.
With Sauron’s evil forces amassing to recapture the all-powerful Ring, the leaders of Middle Earth—elves, dwarves, men, and wizards meet to discuss its fate. Surrendering the Ring to Sauron would result in the death and destruction of all that is good in Middle Earth. Yet, no one dares to try to master the Ring’s power. After heated debate, the leaders of Middle Earth are forced to choose an incredibly risky strategy. They will secretly march the Ring deep into enemy territory and cast it into the lake of fire from which it was forged. This way, and only this way, will the magic Ring be destroyed and Middle Earth saved from peril.
For the journey into enemy territory, the Ring is entrusted to a Frodo Baggins—a small, simple hobbit, who, in his humility, is the most resistant to the magic Ring’s powerful allure. A warrior from each race (men, dwarves, and elves) is chosen to escort Frodo across enemy lines. Boromir, a great leader of men, is selected as one of the companions for Frodo’s quest. The relationship between Boromir and Frodo, centering on the Ring, paints a contrast between self-promotion and humility.
Boromir: The Self-Promoting Prince
Hailing from a great kingdom of men, Boromir is a hero to his people—a strong warrior who has long thwarted the forces of evil on the battlefield. A proud man, he is quick to call attention to his people’s contributions to the war against Sauron’s armies.
In his arrogance, Boromir believes he can master the force of the magic Ring. Unfortunately, the Ring masters him. Yielding to the Ring’s corruptive influence, Boromir attempts to steal it from Frodo. His betrayal costs him his life and nearly ruins the mission to destroy the Ring.
Frodo: The Humble Hobbit
Small in stature, Frodo is weak compared to the warriors around him and common in the midst of the royalty escorting him on his mission. Although he feels unequal to the task of bearing the Ring, Frodo realizes he is the best hope for successfully destroying it. His humility allows him repeatedly to resist the Ring’s temptation. With the help of those around him, he successfully carries out his assignment, and Middle Earth is saved.
Level 4 to Level 5
Headlines are made by commanding presences like Boromir. Willful and self-important, these leaders charge to the forefront and often achieve substantial, but short-lived success. Boromir typifies Level 4 leadership qualities as described by Jim Collins.
• Egotistical
• Charismatic
• High-Performer
• Builds Short-Term Success, Not Successors
• Craves the Credit for Accomplishments
Dynasties are built by humble, but confident leaders like Frodo. Unpretentious and sincere, such leaders patiently develop people and processes to position their organization for long-term success. Frodo exemplifies the Level 5 leadership qualities envisioned by Jim Collins.
• Humble
• Praises Others for Victories Won
• Invests in Successors for Lasting Success
• Elevates the Mission above Personal Prestige
Summary
Perhaps no threat looms larger to leaders than excessive pride. Self-important leaders become short-sighted, and they lose perspective. Humble leaders forgo the limelight, retain focus on the future, and are rewarded with results.
15 minutes