When You Lead Expect Critics to Follow

A note to young leaders.

A reporter asked several people in a small town if they knew the mayor.

“He’s a liar and a cheat”, said the butcher.

“He’s a pompous ass”, said the pharmacist.

“Never voted for him in my life”, said the school teacher.

“Most corrupt leader I’ve ever known”, said the hairdresser.

When the reporter finally met the mayor, he asked him what kind of salary he received.

“Good heavens, no, I don’t draw a salary”, replied the mayor.

“So why do you do the job?”

“For the honour.”

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Leadership will always draw more detractors than supporters.

Aim not for popularity, aim instead for impact.