Can Business Leaders Learn from Ukraine's President Zelensky?

Much has been — and will be — written about the disdainful Russian attack on Ukraine. Catastrophic losses have been incurred on both sides of the conflict, But out of the rubble comes some excellent lessons that can be applied in our everyday business world. They come from a former actor, comedian and producer, with a law degree no less, known as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (anglicized to Zelensky).

Throughout this atrocity, President Zelensky has steadfastly shown the world some incredible leadership. In his leadership, there have been several key traits on display:

• Humanity

• Temperance

• Justice

• Courage

• Transcendence

• Wisdom

• Prudence.

These traits are not new - Aristotle was well-versed in them thousands of years ago. Authors Suze Wilson & Toby Newstead explore President Zelensky’s leadership style in more depth in an article from The Conversation, and correctly note that he has been able to maintain and project an unshakable belief that “Ukrainians will secure victory because of their courage”. Given that their article was published 4 months ago and, today, the tide has turned against the invaders and for the David in this David & Goliath scenario, it seems Wilson and Newstead were right.

As you lead your business, which of President Zelensky’s attributes do you use? Or, maybe more importantly, why don’t you use all of them?