Developing Servant Leaders in Spite of Toxic Organizational Leadership
Developing Servant Leaders in Spite of Toxic Organizational Leadership
Deborah Mugabi | 2024
Abstract
Current events in the world reveal that there are escalating instances of toxic leadership at all levels. While several entities have tried leadership models, they deem effective, there still remains a challenge as to which is the most effective model to employ and how to develop effective leaders inspite of toxic leadership. This book proposes Servant-Leadership as the only effective leadership model that applies to all contexts including those under toxic leadership and recommends an applicable Servant Leader development model that can be reviewed and adopted. The current renown approaches that propose Servant Leadership ably describe characteristics Servant Leaders should exhibit. However, most of, if not all, these approaches neither provide clear guidelines on how individuals and organizations can develop these qualities nor specifically define Servant Leadership development strategies within toxic leadership environments.
The most important question this book seeks to answer, is whether it is possible to develop servant leaders under toxic organizational leadership and if yes, how. The author, therefore reviewed existing literature and real-life events on Toxic Leadership, Leadership Theory, Servant Leadership Development, plus, examined Holy Scriptures such as, Exodus 18. The findings revealed that Servant Leadership Development is possible in all contexts, including toxic environments, and, starts primarily, at a personal level. Its effectiveness requires an active personal relationship with The God of all wisdom and discernment Who reveals the invisible thrones and altars that affect leadership. He then progressively develops the two main constructs, derived from the greatest commandments, plus, wisdom and discernment to guide demonstration of the rest of the Servant Leadership attributes while serving others.
In conclusion, the biggest problems that cause Toxic Leadership also impede Servant Leadership development and are more spiritual than physical. Further research could guide the process of translating spiritual transformation strategies for Servant Leadership development in all contexts, including toxic leadership settings, into Strategic priorities that can be embraced by all, including, non-bible believing leaders or organizations. Additional studies can also investigate tools for measuring leadership toxicity in entities which can help leaders assess the impact of Servant Leadership development on that toxicity, on a regular basis.