Leaving the stage

In politics, business, sport and other spheres, there is a tendency of the so-called old guard to hold on tightly to position and power.

Instead of grooming new leaders, those long in the tooth become the very obstacles that block the advancement of youthful energy, innovation and drive. Great leaders build people, but often, instead of them being a ladder to help others climb, some become antagonistic and engulfed by the fear of being overtaken.

You may be great in your area of expertise, but once you identify someone, believe in them and support them. Give others opportunities to build their confidence and groom them to achieve greater heights than you.

Perhaps the secret is in how we measure value. Some see the value of their position and power, but there is a different way of looking at it.

Greater value is often measured according to the number of people you have trained, served and touched.

In politics, specifically, there remains an ongoing generational battle, where youth feel that the pipeline of progress is being blocked by those they view as political dinosaurs. This agitates populism and instability in many nations on the continent and elsewhere.

Many legacies have been tainted when leaders try to cling to power and position. This is truly tragic, because as the saying goes: “A good dancer must know when to leave the stage.”