“Mandela’s Way”: A Leader’s Genius Distilled Into Perfect Lessons

Many books have changed me, but the one that stands out is

“Mandela’s Way: Lessons on Life, Love, and Courage“

by Richard Stengel.

It is no secret that Madiba (Mandela’s clan name) has had a huge influence on my life, as he has on many others. In this book, the author managed to distill Madiba’s wisdom into a set of lessons that are as unique as they are simple. They helped reinforce my own belief in thinking of others before oneself and in the need for business to be a force for good. They also painted a vivid picture of one of the world’s true heroes.

I Believe we all have the potential to learn new things and change for the better every day. I was 60 by the time I read “Madela’s Way” for the first time, but it has left a profound impression on my life.

I don’t usually enjoy reading biographies all that much, and find that their writers often struggle to communicate the spirit of their subject – especially those with big personalities. However, this book demonstrates the humor and humanity of Mandela, as well as his courage and conviction. One of the most striking elements of the man is his sense of humor: He’s usually laughing and joking, putting smiles upon the faces of all around him. He is consistently honest and says the same thing behind closed doors as he does to someone’s face.

The book details 15 lessons from Madiba, explaining each through personal examples and insights.

  1. Courage is not the absence of fear.
  2. Be measured.
  3. Lead from the front.
  4. Look the part.
  5. Lead from the back.
  6. See the good in others.
  7. Keep your rivals close.
  8. Have a core principle.
  9. Know when to say no.
  10. Know your enemy.
  11. It’s always both.
  12. Love makes the difference.
  13. It’s a long game.
  14. Quitting is leading too.
  15. Find your own garden

I imagine Influencers will discuss books that shaped their life early on, and rightly so. However, I believe we all have the potential to learn new things and change for the better every day. I was 60 by the time I read Mandela’s Way for the first time, but it has left a profound impression on my life.

Mandela and his wonderful wife Graça Machel brought together The Elders, an independent group of global leaders working together for peace and human rights, in 2007. As Virgin Unite incubated The Elders, we have been fortunate to watch the group grow into a formidable force tackling issues such as conflict resolution and women’s empowerment. With Mandela as the Founding Elder (and now an Honorary Elder), they really do embody the values and lessons discussed in Mandela’s Way.

Richard Stengel did a wonderful job on sharing Mandela’s wisdom through his words, and I would encourage anyone in need of inspiration to read it. What book changed you?

This post is part of a series in which V3 Creatives looks at inspirational advice from one of our favourite Entreprenuers

Source: Linkedin
Photos: Richard Branson