Servant Leadership: Empowering and Serving with Purpose By Nigel Hughes, Outstanding.Global
Throughout my 30 years of experience working with diverse businesses worldwide, I’ve observed a myriad of leadership styles, each with its unique impact on team dynamics, organisational success, and societal contributions. As the Founding Director of Outstanding.Global, I’ve dedicated my career to exploring the depths of leadership, creativity, and diversity, driven by a belief in the transformative power of inclusive and empathetic leadership models. Today, I want to share insights into one of the most impactful leadership approaches I’ve championed both professionally and personally: Servant Leadership
Servant Leadership is not merely a theoretical model for me; it’s a lived experience and a guiding principle that shapes my interactions within the boardroom and beyond. The essence of Servant Leadership lies in a simple yet profound shift: placing the needs of others first and dedicating oneself to the growth and well-being of the team and the broader community. This approach resonates deeply with my journey as a leader and social/environmental entrepreneur, founding two multi-award-winning NGOs, Green Light Trust and Northern
Lights.
In my work with high-performance teams and through individual coaching, I’ve seen the transformative effect of Servant Leadership first hand. By focusing on empowering others, we unlock potential, foster innovation, and cultivate environments where everyone feels valued and heard. This leadership style is built on the foundation of empathy, humility, and a commitment to service, values that I hold dear and strive to embody every day.
Empathy, for me, is more than just understanding others’ perspectives; it’s about genuinely connecting with people, recognising their unique challenges and aspirations, and supporting them in a way that fosters mutual respect and growth. It’s about creating a culture where every team member feels they belong and can thrive.
As a leader, I’ve always believed in the importance of being transparent and humble. Admitting when you’re wrong, being open to learning from others, and acknowledging that leadership is a journey of continuous growth are principles I live by. These values not only
build trust but also encourage a culture of open communication and innovation.
My commitment to the well-being of our planet and society at large has driven me to look beyond the immediate confines of my organisations. Through Servant Leadership, I’ve been able to contribute to environmental sustainability and social equity, embodying the belief that
leaders have a responsibility to make a positive impact on the world.
Leading with the purpose of serving others has been the most fulfilling aspect of my career. It’s a philosophy that has not only guided my professional actions but has also shaped my personal mission. I’ve witnessed the powerful ripple effect of Servant Leadership, from transforming organisational cultures to making meaningful contributions to the community and the environment.
In sharing my perspective on Servant Leadership, I hope to inspire current and future leaders to embrace this approach. It’s not just about achieving organisational success; it’s about fostering an environment where people can grow, contribute, and find purpose in their work.
At Outstanding.Global, we’re committed to promoting leadership models that empower individuals, enrich communities, and create a sustainable future for all. As we move forward, I remain dedicated to living and leading by these principles, championing the cause of Servant Leadership as a path to truly outstanding global leadership.
Contact: nigel@outstanding.global T: +447711546131