Whatever you’re personal financial situation right now, there is little doubt that these are tough times for most all of us. Many of our fellow citizens have lost everything and still many others are hanging on by the thinnest of threads hoping for the tide to turn.  

 

Recently, I watched a story about a successful COO whose company had unexpectedly hit severe hard times and had to close. Soon the man felt intense economic stress and decided to take a job offered him by one of his friends.  As I watched the interview, I was struck by the suddenness of the circumstances that had befallen this man and by the manner in which he chose to deal with it.  

As the man was interviewed it was easy to see that he was in pain for many of the colleagues that had lost their jobs as well. He was humbled by circumstances and was confused as to exactly how it all happened so quickly. However, what I could also see was a man that, despite these circumstances, did not complain or point fingers. He did not ask for a handout from the Government or blame the competition. No, he simply decided to take whatever position he could for the time being and try to meet the obligations he had as a father and husband.

 

During the interview, the man expressed concern about what we are teaching our children during these difficult times and he wanted to make sure he was able to teach his children the meaning of words such as hard work and dignity. As he talked, it was clear he was willing to do what every great leader does in times of adversity in order to meet his obligations and responsibilities.

 

Leadership is a very difficult thing at times and often it takes extreme circumstances to see what a true leader is made of. This man was leading by example and not relying on  the position he previously held. He had decided not to complain or beg for handouts; instead, he chose to make use of the means he found available and fight for his family security and show his children what it means to be a real leader.

 

What job did he take you ask? He took a job as a janitor in the very same building where he had once been the boss. 

 

These times will pass, but the impression this man has made on me will be there for some time.  This is leadership by example and I would go to work and be lead by this man anytime!

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