Believe the Best in Others: A Lesson in Leadership from John Maxwell
In today’s world, leadership isn’t just about strategy and decision-making—it’s about influence, trust, and the ability to uplift others. In a powerful episode of Minute with Maxwell, renowned leadership expert and author John Maxwell offers a heartfelt reflection from Chapter 2 of his book The Charismatic Leader. This chapter focuses on one essential principle of transformational leadership: believing the best in others.
The Eagle and the Hippo Within Us
Maxwell begins with a relatable question: Have you ever had a bad day? Most of us have. Sometimes, we experience moments so difficult or embarrassing that we hope no one notices. That’s just part of being human. We all carry dual natures—our bold, aspirational side, and our defeated, discouraged side.
Maxwell uses two powerful metaphors to describe this duality:
The eagle within us wants to soar, to reach new heights and lead with strength and vision.
The hippo within us wants to wallow, to retreat into the mud and feel sorry for ourselves.
The challenge, then, is which side we allow to take the lead in our lives and our interactions with others.
Why Believing in Others Matters
Maxwell explains that the way we choose to view others has a direct impact on how they show up. When we believe the best in people, we often bring out the best in them. Our expectations influence outcomes. Leaders who assume positive intent create an environment where trust, collaboration, and growth can flourish.
But the opposite is also true:
When we expect the worst, we often get the worst.
If we approach others with suspicion or negativity, it colors our actions and attitudes—and that energy is felt and returned.
This dynamic isn’t just a theory—it’s a universal leadership truth: We receive what we give.
The Power of Positive Expectations in Leadership
Chapter 2 of The Charismatic Leader teaches a timeless principle that’s especially vital in leadership and personal growth: set high expectations, grounded in belief, not fear.
Here’s why this matters:
When people feel seen for their potential rather than their mistakes, they rise.
When a team leader expresses genuine belief in an employee, performance and morale increase.
In relationships, whether professional or personal, belief is the foundation of connection.
Reflections for Your Own Leadership Journey
Maxwell shares a touching aspiration: “I don’t want to be remembered as John the Hippo. I want to be remembered as John the Eagle.” It’s an invitation for all of us to reflect on how we want to be remembered.
Ask yourself:
Do I uplift others, or do I let my own bad days influence how I treat them?
Do I assume the best or the worst in those I lead?
Am I someone who helps others fly—or someone who drags them into the mud?
Final Thoughts: Lead Like an Eagle
Believing the best in others is more than a leadership tactic—it’s a way of life. It’s about embodying hope, trust, and grace in our relationships. As Maxwell wisely said:
“Trust me, when you do, you’ll bring out their best.”
Let this be your leadership mantra: Believe in others. Lift them up. And lead with the wings of an eagle.