I was a nineteen-year-old when asked that question during my army officer selection board interview.
My answer was simple and naïve.
- I want to serve my country doing something I believe I’d enjoy.
- I will receive training and experience that I couldn’t obtain elsewhere.
- My family history is one of military service as commissioned officers.
Since then, as an executive coach and leadership developer, I’ve heard two distinct answers to the question of why one wants to be a leader.
The first comes from the camp of Donald Trump:
- I want to be in control.
- I want the power.
- I want the status.
- I want the privileges.
- I’m better than others.
The second comes from the camp of Tim Cook:
- I want to serve a worthy cause.
- I enjoy seeing people grow and thrive.
- It’s not about me, it’s about us.
- We make a positive difference to our world.
- We need each other.
Why do you want to be a leader?
