Last week, the world was overcome with profound sadness at the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. She took on a massive responsibility in her 20s and served as a courageous yet compassionate female leader at a time when men were in power. She dedicated her life to public service, tirelessly helping others in need.
In honour of Queen Elizabeth II, I spent the weekend reflecting on her words, and the many life lessons we as leaders can learn from her. Here are some of my favourites:
“When life seems hard, the courageous do not lie down and accept defeat; instead they are all the more determined to struggle for a better future.”
On staying strong during challenging times, a true leader must work even harder. There are people who depend on us and it is our task to carry the burden of our role. Hard times will measure your grit and mental toughness. Some people think that just because they are on the top, they can just sit back and relax. Truth is, the higher you get, the more responsibility you will have.
“We all need to get the balance right between action and reflection. With so many distractions it is easy to forget to pause and take stock.”
It’s not just about doing and doing and doing. At times, it is important to pause and ensure that you are going in the right direction. Mindful leadership is something I strongly advocate. As your company grows bigger, it is easy to lose your intention. It is easy to forget your big WHY. Find time to reflect and meditate. There is no point in going fast in the wrong direction.
“It’s all to do with training: you can do a lot if you’re properly trained.”
As a leader, it is your task to train yourself and your people to think, work and act in a way that honours their potential. Train your body and mind to reach new heights. Constantly challenge yourself and more importantly, provide opportunities for your team to upskill and improve.
Queen Elizabeth II was a true leader, embodying grace and selfless service. She is undoubtedly an inspiration to millions of people around the world. Her passing reminded me of our humanity, the fleetingness of our existence, and the importance of the legacy we leave behind.
You will live on in our hearts and minds forever.
Rest in peace, Your Majesty.
