Narcissistic Psychopaths - What Steward Elders are NOT
Hands up who loves a narcissistic leader….waiting...waiting…
Yeah thought so.
None of us do!
Narcissistic leaders often emerge in societies that are increasingly self-absorbed, reflecting the psyche of their cultures. These leaders are often what we would call “full of themselves” projecting a grandiose self-image while gathering “followers”, who see their own future goals and dreams mirrored in them.
While the spotlight is on them they shine and bask, however at the slightest whiff of criticism, dissent or failure, they may lash out aggressively, blaming their team for mistakes, lost sales, missed deadlines (insert whatever blame you can imagine here), basically they are like Teflon – that sh#@ doesn’t stick to them. Their modus operandi is to blame everyone else around them which can lead to disillusionment, shame, disengagement, withholding and worse, trauma among their team. The rise of such leaders is particularly pronounced in organisations that are lower on the Culture Consciousness Spectrum
Ultimately, this dynamic perpetuates a cycle of exploitation and manipulation, as narcissistic leaders thrive on the vulnerabilities and desires of their followers. In an era where leadership is often misunderstood, Steward Eldership stands as a counterforce to outdated paradigms of control, dominance, and self-interest. But before we define what it is, we must first be clear about what it is not.
1. Steward Eldership Is NOT About Ego
Leadership inflated by ego is a recipe for disaster. Consider leaders who prioritise grandiosity over service, adorning their offices lavishly to reflect self-importance rather than focusing on the needs of their people. Such self-centeredness fosters environments where dissent is silenced, and the leader's image eclipses the organization's mission.
2. Steward Eldership Is NOT About Control
Authoritarian figures globally in recent times have demonstrated how consolidating power undermines democratic institutions and silences opposition. This obsession with control stifles innovation and breeds fear, creating a culture where individuals are hesitant to contribute or challenge the status quo.
It’s power with control that’s the problem. When power is in the hands of individuals the power goes to their head and then bad behaviour, corruption and disconnection becomes the reality.
3. Steward Eldership Is NOT About Personal Gain
When leaders prioritize personal enrichment over public service, corruption festers. Instances abound where leaders exploit their positions for financial gain, leading to widespread disillusionment and systemic decay. Steward Eldership demands selflessness, focusing on the collective wellbeing rather than individual reward.
Read more about this in this article How Narcissistic Leaders Destroy from Within.
4. Steward Eldership Is NOT About Charismatic Domination
Charisma can be a double-edged sword. Leaders who rely solely on their charm to manipulate and dominate often create personality cults, as seen in various authoritarian regimes. This facade of invincibility discourages genuine dialogue and marginalizes critical voices, leading to a brittle and unsustainable leadership model.vaknin-talks.com
5. Steward Eldership Is NOT About Short-Term Wins
Pursuing immediate gratification at the expense of long-term stability is a hallmark of flawed leadership. For example, leaders who engage in reckless policies for quick political gains often leave their nations vulnerable to future crises. Steward Eldership emphasizes sustainable growth and the foresight to invest in future generations.
6. Steward Eldership Is NOT About Being the Hero
The "lone saviour" narrative is a dangerous myth. Leaders who position themselves as the sole solution to their nation's problems, dismissing collaborative governance, risk isolating their countries and alienating allies. True stewardship involves empowering others, fostering resilience, and building a legacy of collective strength.
The True Essence of Steward Eldership
Steward Eldership is about creating a better future by guiding with wisdom, humility, and service. It involves shifting from authority to accountability, from personal ambition to the collective good, and from temporary success to enduring impact.
By understanding what Steward Eldership is not, we gain a clearer picture of what it truly means to lead with integrity. It is not about being in control; it is about being in service. It is not about ego; it is about impact. And above all, it is not about the self—it is about the greater whole.