Leaders must have a healthy self esteem.

Self esteem, self love, self confidence - what’s the difference and when does it become self destruction?

• If your belief system is based only on what you are capable of doing all on your own, your capabilities are limited. 
• If your greatest aspiration is a better version of you, even the “best version of you” your opportunity is also limited. 
• If your confidence, esteem and love for yourself is based solely on an evaluation of you, they will all be limited OR grossly over exaggerated ie. narcissism. 

To have a healthy view of self, humans need a reference point. More than comparing to the past, more than hoping for the future, more than wishes and dreams - humans need a model example. 

It’s hard for me to present this leadership lesson without my personal faith being a part of it. The reason is simple. In my opinion, experience and research, the person who best exemplifies a perfected model human was Jesus of Nazareth. He was balanced in his compassion and authority. He loved everyone He encountered. He gave generously of His time and received graciously from others. He knew what authority He must submit to vs which authority to surrender to vs which authority to resist and challenge. He had a healthy view of himself in context to others and to the Creator of the Universe. 
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Leaders become narcissistic tyrants when they see themselves as the wish to be and must “lower” others to achieve that status. This “self love practice” can be very dangerous for long term growth and will adversely effect those you lead.

Photo by Alex Michaelsen on Unsplash