"The Power of Servant Leadership in the Network Society"

"The Power of Servant Leadership in the Network Society"

In today's network society, leadership is evolving to adapt to the changing dynamics of power and influence. One leadership style that has gained recognition and popularity is servant leadership. This philosophy emphasizes the importance of authority over power and encourages leaders to prioritize the needs of others before their own.

Servant leadership is characterized by a decentralized organizational structure that includes customer-facing employees in decision-making processes. These employees, who have a close relationship with consumers, are better equipped to make informed decisions that can help retain existing customers and attract new ones. By involving these employees in decision-making, servant leaders empower them to contribute to the success of the organization and develop their own leadership qualities.

Interestingly, the concept of servant leadership can also be observed in popular culture, such as in the anime series "鬼滅の刃" (Demon Slayer). The protagonist, 炭治郎 (Tanjiro), embodies the traits of a servant leader. He is not the typical visionary or power-driven leader, but rather someone who selflessly gives and empowers others.

In the story of "鬼滅の刃," the stark contrast between the relentless demons who take everything and Tanjiro and his comrades, who give everything, highlights the essence of servant leadership. Tanjiro's network of givers comes together to fight against the network of takers led by the main antagonist, 無惨 (Muzan). This battle can be seen as a metaphor for the clash between different leadership styles in the network society.

The network society demands a new mindset that aligns with the values of servant leadership. In this era, where opinions can be amplified through the echo chamber effect of networks, there exists a bug-like state where individuals become takers, like black holes, instead of givers. To determine whether this is a positive or negative phenomenon, it is essential to judge based not on the correctness of network claims, but on behavior towards those outside the network.

Unfortunately, the modern era has seen a shift towards a misguided notion of strength, where equality, vulnerability, and victimhood are used as justifications for attacking others. Strength has become a tool, much like a blade, and it is the direction in which it is wielded that becomes the real issue. Instead of simply reacting based on past experiences, servant leadership emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's agency and the power to make choices, regardless of the circumstances.

Having strength does not guarantee a resolution to all problems; rather, it brings about the dilemma of how to exercise that strength. According to the Dunbar's number, the average person can naturally maintain relationships with around 150 individuals. Understanding this limit can help leaders build meaningful connections and create a network of givers who can collectively contribute to problem-solving.

To embrace the principles of servant leadership in the network society, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

• 1. Foster empathy: Take the time to understand the needs and perspectives of others. Empathy allows leaders to connect on a deeper level and make decisions that consider the well-being of everyone involved.

• 2. Practice active listening: Actively listen to the ideas and feedback of those around you. By giving others a voice and valuing their input, leaders can create an inclusive and collaborative environment.

• 3. Cultivate personal growth: Invest in the development of others by providing opportunities for learning and growth. Servant leaders understand that their role is not only to achieve authority but also to nurture the leadership qualities of those they lead.

In conclusion, servant leadership offers a powerful approach to leadership in the network society. By prioritizing authority over power and placing the needs of others at the forefront, leaders can foster a culture of collaboration, empathy, and personal growth. As demonstrated in "鬼滅の刃," the story of Tanjiro and his comrades serves as a reminder of the potential impact of servant leadership in our interconnected world.