I am admittedly a bit gullible for a beautiful full moon. There is something about the transcendent disc floating in the sky that captivates me. This past weekend’s full moon did not disappoint. Just as I was admiring her beauty, I was reminded of a Congolese quote about leadership that says, “If you are a leader, be like the moon, not like the sun.” Obviously intended to make one think deeply about the concept of leadership, the proverb also invites us to observe the world around us for clues to guide our journeys.
So, what does it mean to lead like the moon? And what is the issue with leading like the sun? From my studies of indigenous cultures, I know the concept of duality is critical for balance and harmony in our society and in the universe. In corporate leadership, there is often a focus on the type of leadership that is linked to the sun. Characteristics of “sun” leadership include being the center of attention, taking charge and intense focus. There are times when a leader must take control and lead from a position of authority. And there are also times when a different, but complementary style may be effective.
Let’s talk about the moon. In her brilliance, she shines brightest in the dark of night, especially when she is completely full. The symbolism is quite profound. What strength and courage must the moon have to illuminate the Earth in its darkened, nocturnal state. Night is the time for rest and rejuvenation. And the moon prompts us to take time to be still and to contemplate. With hectic days and multiple priorities, it is important for leaders to take time to be mindful and contemplative about the day and the tasks we are engaged in. Time for self is essential for effective and sustainable leadership, which brings me to the next point.
Each month, the moon makes its journey from waxing and waning, progressing from new to full and then back again in an endless cycle. As leaders, we should be aware of cycles – those of ourselves and our teams. Contemplation creates the space for clear awareness and is a tool to guide our actions as leaders. The correct action may be highly dependent on the part of the cycle we find ourselves in when leading our teams through challenges. By taking time to step away from the challenge, we are able to see the patterns and get insight into the appropriate actions needed for success.
Characteristics of “moon” leadership are linked to patience, discernment, intuition, feelings and the subconscious. Over the past 25 years, I’ve mostly witnessed this type of leadership displayed by the leaders of traditional cultural communities I’ve been honored to learn from. I’ve seen how effective their style can be. Imagine a room full of people when suddenly a problem arises that impacts everyone. Everyone in the room begins to respond with opinions and chatter. The room is in a frenzy. Everyone talks over each other, devising solutions and providing colorful commentary. Meanwhile, the Elder in the room has already made the shift. He or she is the wisest one in the community, usually older and possessing the traditions of their culture. With all of the excitement in the room, the Elder would noticeably grow softer in presence. In the midst of the turmoil brewing all around, he or she would seem to shift mentally into a space so magical and balanced that calm and patience are exuded. Here is where the Elder stays, unmoved by the excitement, until the needed clarity has been received. Only when ready does the Elder finally voice his or her stance on the matter at hand. The words would be concise, deliberate and truthful. And the room would fall into a peaceful place as if the moon herself had spoken. I’ve witnessed countless moments like these. I was witnessing “moon” style of leadership – deliberately patient, informed by a deeper guidance, adaptive and wise, yielding but powerful. And it is exactly moments like these that make me curious about leadership.
As leaders, how do we assess situations and discern the best course for our teams and the companies we represent? How do we develop the discipline to discover the right mix of sun and moon in our leadership styles? The answers to these questions are unique to each individual as it depends on the individual’s own temperament, experience and influence of the organization’s culture.
What I do know is there is indeed an art of leadership. It is nuanced. It beckons us to look for hidden insights below the surface and adapt continuously. And that is what is so intriguing about the notion of leading like the moon. It doesn’t call on us to abandon our connection to our personal style. It doesn’t ask us to part ways with the sun. In fact, the moon complements the sun. They both exist harmoniously to ensure life is sustained. Instead, the moon asks us to consider that just as the moon, we can include the still quiet of mind as a tool to discern paths unseen in the dark of night for our leadership journeys.
