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The Politics of Dominance
The rules for those at the top are different because dominance is not merely about being in charge, it is also about assuming the mantle of leadership. True leadership demands rising above self-interest and embracing the higher calling of serving and inspiring those who are led.
To me, dominance is not inherently negative. It is a natural phase in the lifecycle of systems. Balance is achieved when the dominant party demonstrates humility, resists the temptation to overreach, and leads by example, while the opposition embraces constructive dialogue and resists the allure of destructive populism.
Leadership
Leadership at the top is never just about results and encompasses setting the tone for others to follow. What a leader tolerates becomes the norm, and what the leader celebrates becomes the aspiration. Exceptional leaders understand that their actions create culture, whether they intend to or not. Leaders who use exclusionary language, demonstrate biases, or behaviors create a toxic culture that marginalizes certain groups, stifles diversity, and undermines trust. Exceptional leaders embody the following qualities:
Accountability
When you’re in charge, there’s no one else to blame. Acknowledging mistakes openly…
