Ancient lessons

Marcus Aurelius’ “Meditations” is an ancient text on stoicism and self-improvement, but many lessons apply to workplace leadership.

As a sort of history buff myself, I was naturally drawn to “Meditations” by Marcus Aurelius, often called the “last good emperor” of the Roman Empire or the “philosopher king.” 

Here are a few takeaways I got from key quotes of the book we can apply to leadership in the workplace and in all aspects of life.

“One person, on doing well by others, immediately accounts the expected favor in return. Another is not so quick, but still considers the person a debtor and knows the favor. A third kind of person acts as if not conscious of the deed, rather like a vine producing a cluster of grapes without making further demands, like a horse after its race, or a dog after its walk, or a bee after making its honey. Such a person, having done a good deed, won’t go shouting from rooftops but simply moves on to the next deed just like the vine produces another bunch of grapes in the right season.”

I interpret this as leading for the sake of leading because that’s what leaders do. As a leader you must know that thankless service is part of the job. It is nice to get recognition from time to time (which you should humbly accept), but good leaders should do their duty for the sake of their followers without the need for self-serving recognition.

“If we judge as good and evil only the things in the power of our own choice, then there is no room left for blaming gods or being hostile to others.”

I interpret this as good leaders take responsibility for their actions and sometimes for the actions of their followers. A strong leader doesn’t throw followers under the bus when something fails, especially when responsibility needs to be taken in a public way. It’s impossible to control events outside of our sphere, but we can control how we react to those events.

“If anyone can refute me‚ show me I’m making a mistake or looking at things from the wrong perspective‚ I’ll gladly change. It’s the truth I’m after.”

This is one of the most important qualities a leader should have: the ability to listen and learn from others when you may be wrong. One person can’t always be right, and it is important for all members of a team to be able to listen to each other, especially the leader.

YEEKENG YANG, digital media design specialist, Credit Union National Association.

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