A leader is a protector

What a leader should not do: Create insecurity among the employees

"A leader has to be a good fighter. And when he has to fight for his people he needs to do his very best." - Radhakrishnan Pillai

Continuing from where we left off.

A leader is a protector. He can be compared to a shield that saves the subjects from external enemies. What would happen if the protector himself becomes the destroyer?

Therefore, continuing this ten-part series, we will now take up points that Chanakya highlights as something which, if not considered seriously, can create insecurity among the subjects.

He says, “Reasons for dissatisfaction of subjects: By doing harmful things and destroying beneficial things; By failing to protect from thieves and by robbing (them) himself.” (7.5.19-26)

First and foremost, a leader of any organisation should not do any harmful things. At the same time, beneficial things should not be destroyed. For example, destroying respected religious symbols can be a problem.

Secondly, a leader should protect them from robbers or any other external factors that can erode the wealth of the people, the state, or even the employees of an organisation. Most importantly, he should not rob them himself!

But how can a leader carry out all these duties?  Here are some tips to follow:

If he is left for free, the fear of the thief returning lingers in the minds of all.

Be the wall

The leader has to be like a wall— protection as well as a barrier. When an outsider tries to attack your subordinates, come in front and face the challenge yourself. Since an employee will not know how to take care of himself. In such a situation, the mighty leader is the only hope. So be there when they require you.

Take action against outsiders

“Anyone who disturbs the happiness and the peace of my subjects will not be spared!” said a king. This is indicated in the above verse when Chanakya says that he should protect them from thieves. If some outside thief is caught, get him punished immediately. If he is left for free, the fear of the thief returning lingers in the minds of all. Strict action will ensure confidence in the leader.

Don’t rob your own people

Robbing does not just mean stealing money and other physical objects alone. It’s also other important aspects—honor, dignity, and gratitude. If a person truly deserves, do give him that reward and award. Your people are your greatest assets. Pay them well, pay them in time. Remember, only if our own army is strong will it fight for you.

A leader also has to be a good fighter. And when he has to fight for his people he needs to do his very best. As Faye Wattleton said it so beautifully: “Whoever is providing leadership needs to be as fresh and thoughtful and reflective as possible to make the very best fight.”

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