The content of this podcast is based on an article series on good leadership, written by Per Winblad, CEO and Editor-in-Chief at Motivation.se. The article series, entitled "Tidlösa Principer för Gott Ledarskap" ("Timeless Principles for Good Leadership"), explores the qualities of a good leader, using King Solomon's proverbs as inspiration *.

This episode emphasizes that leadership is a relationship and on the importance of positive relationships, servant leadership, constructive feedback and active listening. The episode highlights these themes using words of wisdom from King Solomon.

Introduction: Leadership as Relationship

Leadership is not an individual achievement, but a joint journey that develops in interaction with those you lead. Leadership is a relationship around something valuable.

The relationship needs to be deepened through increased understanding and participation in the common goal.

Positive relationships develop the intellectual, emotional, social and moral sides of those involved. Open dialogue, safety, social strength and high energy promote learning and development.

Servant Leadership

Good leaders are service-oriented and put the employees' interests at the center. Guiding stars are serving others and giving. They recognize the contributions of all employees and create an environment where employees support each other.

They make others feel important and needed, which reflects love for one’s neighbor. The love of one’s neighbor means that one cares about the well-being of other people on several levels.

Support and appreciation are crucial for employees to feel valued, motivated and respected. “Anxious hearts are very depressed, but a word of encouragement works wonders”

The Power of Positive Words and Feedback

Kind words and encouragement give energy, while harsh words break down courage.

Good leaders focus on the positive in their employees and help them regain focus if something has gone wrong.

Accessibility and responsiveness show respect and satisfy a basic need to be seen and affirmed. Honesty is fundamental to appreciation and development.

Feedback should be received as a gift and a learning opportunity.

Listen Actively and Learn from Others

Good leaders are curious and actively listen to learn and to show respect.

Active listening makes people open up more. By listening and trying to understand others' perspectives, conflicts can be resolved.

Giving advice at the right time and in the right way is an important leadership skill.

Engagement and Development

Good leaders strive to see their employees develop towards common and individual goals. They create long-lasting, trusting and positive relationships. Their mission is to contribute to a better world, based on strong values.

Practical Advice for Leaders:

• Get to know your group.
• Seek to understand each employee as an individual.
• Be available and responsive. Show that you care.
• Be open to feedback. See it as an opportunity to learn.
• Listen actively. Try to understand before you are understood yourself.
• Participate in the experiences of others. Show interest and commitment.
• Affirm those around you. Show that you see and value the contributions of others.
• Be direct and honest. Build trust through open communication.

Quote from Solomon

"Kind words give life and health, while harsh words break courage."

"After all, people appreciate sincerity more than flattery."

"Don't refuse to accept criticism, but get all the help you can get."

"The wise learn by listening."

"A soft answer turns away anger, but harsh words cause strife."

"Everyone likes to give good advice, but how wonderful it is to be able to give it at the right time and at the right time."

Conclusion

This episode of "Timeless Principles for Good Leadership" emphasizes that leadership is about building relationships based on mutual respect, trust and development.

By embracing these principles, leaders can create positive and successful work environments where people feel valued and motivated. King Solomon's words of wisdom serve as a reminder of how timeless these principles are.

Source: Excerpts from "Tidlösa Principer för Gott Ledarskap” - a series of articles written by Per Winblad

* According to the Old Testament, Solomon was king of Israel during the 9th century BC. and ruled for 40 years. He was the son of King David and Bathsheba. He is known for his wisdom and for being the one who was allowed to carry out his father's plans to build the temple in Jerusalem. Source: Wikipedia