At Say Yes to Childcare’s ECE Servant Leaders Academy, we believe early childhood educators and caregivers are on a path of servant leadership, which is the noblest of all styles of leadership. In this article, we review 7 main practices of servant leaders:
1. Service vs. Leadership Orientation:
Servant leaders always remember the primacy and supremacy of providing service above all and everything else.
“I am first a servant, second a leader)
2. Listening:
Servant leaders learn and practice to listen deeply and attentively.
“I am listening to you! Tell me more.” “I listen and listen again.”
3. Empathy:
Servant leaders develop and demonstrate empathy for everyone.
“I see your humanity and show care for your pain.”
4. Healing:
Servant leaders do their best to heal the pain and wounds of others.
“How can I help and heal you within my capacity?”
5. Community and Circle Orientation:
Servant Leaders believe in the community and the circle of humanity.
“I am a contributing and caring member of the community. Someone cared for me so that I can grow and become independent. It’s now my turn to show care for others so they can grow and become independent.”
6. Conceptualizing a Hopeful Vision:
Servant leaders are thoughtful, develop plans and ideas for a better future for all.
“I visualize and plan for a future of peace, prosperity, and progress for all.”
7. Stewardship:
Servant leaders are keepers of resources and the environment.
“I believe in eliminating waste, abuse, and misuse of resources and nature. I believe in preserving nature and living in harmony with planets and animals.”
For more information and training opportunities, please contact Hamid Akbari, Ph.D., Director of ECE Servant Leader Teachers Academy.
