As we celebrate America’s freedom each year on the 4^th of the July, I like to reflect on the amazing leadership demonstrated by the 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence.  There are two incredible business lessons that resonate with me above all else when I consider what John Adams knew would be “the most memorable Epocha in the History of America.”

1.   Objection to Autocratic Leadership

Prior to 1776, England had enjoyed extreme benefit for nearly 175 years from the colonies.  The economic value of the goods produced and taxed is difficult to determine, but it is inarguable that during this period the British Empire was absolutely dominant.  But the King of England made a series of mistakes that can be attributed to nothing less than bad leadership.

Bad leaders manage from the top down, oppressing their people with burdensome regulations, failing to listen to their opinions, and not providing them with an opportunity to thrive.  This top-down approach doesn’t work and causes people to leave.  The colonial revolt didn’t start with the Declaration of Independence, that began back in 1765.  There were decades of unrest and vocalization leading up to the signing which set in motion the Revolutionary War. 

King George III seems to me to have been a very insecure leader.  He surrounded himself with weak leaders because it made him feel more powerful.  He and his team did whatever they could to consolidate power instead of sharing it.  This selfish style of autocratic leadership alienates people to the point of revolution.

2.   Living a Legacy

The signers of the Declaration of Independence knew they were creating a legacy.  They did not take the drafting process lightly and came together with a common mission to protect the rights of the estimated 2.5 million colonial residents but also were keenly aware of the legacy the were leaving in this world.  John Adams wrote that this “will be celebrated by succeeding Generations,” and history has proven him correct.

These leaders were not thinking about next week, next year, or next decade.  They were thinking about multiple generations.  No wonder their legacy is so incredible.  They thought about it and lived it out daily, using their power to help others.

As we return to work after a celebration of great leadership, perhaps it’s time to reflect on our own.  Do we resemble an oppressive king or a sacrificing forefather?  If you want to change before your people leave you, or think you can do a better job leaving a legacy, GrowTheBench can help.  Check out our leadership courses here.