We owe our children – the most vulnerable citizens in any society – a life free from violence and fear.
Nelson MandelaRead
If I am your leader, you have to listen to me & if you don’t want to listen to me, then drop me as your leader
Interpretation
What this quote means
A leader must be respected and heard; if not, one should reconsider their leadership role.
This quote by Nelson Mandela emphasizes the essential relationship between a leader and their followers. It highlights that leadership is not merely about authority but also about mutual respect and communication. If followers do not respect or heed their leader's guidance, it may be more appropriate for them to seek a leader they are willing to follow. Thus, it reflects the importance of trust and alignment within leadership dynamics.
Themes
LeadershipListenRespectAuthorityGuidance
In practice
Example use cases
In a team meeting, a manager might quote Mandela to emphasize the importance of open communication.
More from Nelson Mandela
All quotes →What freedom am I being offered while the organization of the people remains banned? Only free men can negotiate. A prisoner cannot enter into contracts.
Nelson MandelaRead
The past is a rich resource on which we can draw in order to make decisions for the future, but it does not dictate our choices. We should look back at the past and select what is good, and leave behind what is bad.
Nelson MandelaRead
We signal that good can be achieved amongst human beings who are prepared to trust, prepared to believe in the goodness of people.
Nelson MandelaRead
After one has been in prison, it is the small things that one appreciates: being able to take a walk whenever one wants, going into a shop and buying a newspaper, speaking or choosing to remain silent. The simple act of being able to control one's person.
Nelson MandelaRead
I dream of the realization of the unity of Africa, whereby its leaders combine in their efforts to solve the problems of this continent. I dream of our vast deserts, of our forests, of all our great wildernesses.
Nelson MandelaRead
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Those who govern must see how the people react to administration. Ultimately, the people are the final arbiters.
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'Selma' is a story about voice - the voice of a great leader; the voice of a community that triumphs despite turmoil; and the voice of a nation striving to grow into a better society. I hope the film reminds us that all voices are valuable and worthy of being heard.
Ava DuvernayRead
If analysis shows that someone's brilliant work fails again and again as soon as cooperation from others is required, it probably indicates a lack of courtesy - that is, a lack of manners.
Peter DruckerRead