In 2006, U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lieutenant Travis Manion began preparing for another tour to Iraq. When his brother-in-law expressed concern, Manion affirmed his commitment to duty, adding that if he didn’t go, someone less experienced would.
Manion made the ultimate sacrifice when he was killed in action after protecting his troops from enemy fire. He was posthumously awarded the Silver Star and Bronze Star with Valor for his bravery. Today, his words have become a widely recognized charge for the Marines: “IF NOT ME, THEN WHO?”
Very few leaders are placed in positions faced with life-or-death consequences. Such situations require leaders who are willing to operate outside themselves to focus on a much greater purpose. The expectation is that they make decisions absent of self-ambition or self-interest and, in the most heroic cases, act with total disregard for their personal well-being.
As these leaders understand, the greatest and gravest responsibilities lie with them. And if they don’t act, who will? So, they embrace the ultimate paradox of leadership: They make the choice to lead with action while deflecting any focus away from themselves. Every decision they make is not about them. They put the mission and their team members above their own needs and desires.
In turbulent times and in everyday moments, great leadership begins with a timeless idea: It’s not about the leader. Everything that happens, or fails to happen is ultimately their responsibility, but they must execute their duties without regard for themselves. Exceedingly hard to do for everyone but a true leader.
