How to be a Leader even when we don't have any Position

If we consider a four-quadrant diagram with position on the x-axis and disposition on the y-axis, we can categorize leadership as follows:

1. Bottom-right quadrant: Position without disposition.
2. Bottom-left quadrant: Neither position nor disposition.
3. Top-left quadrant: Disposition without position.
4. Top-right quadrant: Both position and disposition.

Leaders in the bottom-right quadrant, with position but lacking disposition, are the most dangerous.

They abuse power for selfish, shortsighted, or even self-destructive purposes, driven by personal grievances, grudges, or fantasies.

Their sole criterion for interacting with others is whether they are valued or respected, leading them to surround themselves with sycophants and persecute dissenters.

These individuals:

• undermine teams
• suppress constructive criticism
• and fail to create an environment where others can grow.

Example: Cersei Lannister (Game of Thrones)

Cersei holds the position of Queen but lacks the disposition of a true leader. Her leadership is driven by personal ambition, paranoia, and a desire for control, leading to decisions that destabilize the realm and harm those she governs.

• Those in the bottom-left quadrant lack both the position and the disposition of leadership.
• They are unlikely to accomplish anything significant, whether constructive or destructive.

They may remain confined to their mental cocoons, contributing little to the world around them.

To lead a life of significance, they need to cultivate at least some disposition of leadership, moving toward the top-left quadrant.

Example: Peter Pettigrew (Harry Potter)

Pettigrew neither possesses a leadership position nor the disposition to lead. He is submissive, selfish, and opportunistic, making no significant positive contribution but instead aligning with dark forces for personal survival.

Individuals in the top-left quadrant possess the disposition of leadership but lack the position.

Many of us may find ourselves here — wanting to serve and add value but not having significant influence or authority.

• Rather than resenting the lack of a leadership position, we can focus on leveraging the resources we do have to assist others, guide them, and facilitate their growth.
• By cultivating the disposition of leadership, we can make a substantial impact and may eventually be entrusted with positions of leadership.

Example: Samwise Gamgee (The Lord of the Rings)

Sam lacks formal authority but demonstrates the disposition of a leader through loyalty, courage, and selfless service. His unwavering support for Frodo is instrumental in the success of their mission.

Those in the top-right quadrant possess both the position and the disposition of leadership.

They combine external stature and power with an internal attitude of service.

These leaders:

• bring value to others' lives by creating support systems
• offering training
• and mentoring others constructively and effectively.

They represent the ideal balance of leadership qualities.

Example: Professor Dumbledore (Harry Potter)

Dumbledore combines his position as headmaster of Hogwarts with the disposition of a wise, compassionate, and strategic leader. He mentors and inspires others, creating systems of support and fostering growth.

• Leadership combines position (external stature and power) with disposition (internal aptitude and attitude).
• The most effective leaders have both position and disposition, while the most destructive lack disposition despite having position.
• Cultivating the disposition of leadership allows us to grow in influence and effectiveness, even without an official position.

1. What do the position and disposition of leadership mean to you?
2. How can you practically cultivate the disposition of leadership?
3. Can you identify individuals in each of the four quadrants to better understand their actions? Where do you currently fall, and how can you progress?