Robin Sharma’s inspirational and self-help book “The Leader Who Had No Title: A Modern Fable on Real Success in Business and Life” was published in 2010. The book tells a fictional story that educates leadership and success principles through the experiences of its characters. The main message of the book is that by adopting specific mindsets and behaviours, anyone, no matter their title or position, can be a leader and achieve amazing success.
The narrative centres around the character of Blake Davis, a skilled employee at a technology company who is disappointed by his challenges in his personal and professional life. At a local bookstore, he meets a janitor called Tommy Flinn, and through a series of meets, Tommy gives guidelines to Blake on achieving success and leadership. Tommy is presented as a mature and intelligent person who, despite his relatively modest position, has achieved significant personal and professional fulfilment.
Tommy shares several important concepts with Blake throughout the book:
Title and positions
The book’s important idea is that titles and positions are not define true leadership. Regardless of their official position, anyone can become a leader by taking the initiative, being proactive, and making a positive influence.
Mindset
Finding passion and purpose in your work is a necessity for success. When you are enthusiastic about the work you do, you are more likely to succeed and make a difference.
Change
The modern world changes on a regular basis and successful people are those that welcome change, constantly learning, and innovate to stay ahead.
Build Relationships
The importance of developing solid relationships with colleagues, mentors, and friends is highlighted throughout the book. Those relationships can bring support, advice, and chances for growth. True leadership involves helping people and giving value to their lives.
Empowerment
Empowerment includes not just empowering others, but also empowering oneself. Believing in your potential and taking action can lead to extraordinary results.
Positive
Even in tough circumstances, maintaining a positive outlook can lead to better result. Positivity attracts opportunity and develops resiliency. You can make a positive influence and build trust by focusing on helping and contributing.
In a nutshell “The Leader Who Had No Title” teaches readers to find their own leadership potential and to approach life with an active, hopeful and motivated by purpose perspective. It indicates that leadership is about how you choose to live and contribute to the world around you, rather than a formal position.
