For so many of us who grew up during the time of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II seventy-year reign, the longest reign of any British royal in history, we witnessed the highest quality of leadership around the world from her. We can all learn from the way she led England and what made her so special to people around the world.
As recollections of her life journey unfold before us in the media over these next few weeks, it is a good time to recall the qualities and traits of a remarkably skilled leader in hopes that today’s leaders will follow in the way she led others. God knows we need great leaders now more than ever! What our children see and learn from our leaders today will greatly impact generations to come!
Queen Elizabeth II had vision on what makes a strong leader. In her 2019 Christmas broadcast she is quoted as saying:
“It’s worth remembering that it is often the small steps, not the giant leaps, that bring about the most lasting change.”
“Let us not take ourselves too seriously. None of us has a monopoly on wisdom.”
In her 2008 Christmas broadcast she stated:
“When life seems hard, the courageous do not lie down and accept defeat; instead, they are all the more determined to struggle for a better future.”
In her address to the United Nations in July 2010:
“I know of no single formula for success, but over the years I have observed that some attributes of leadership are universal and are often about finding ways of encouraging people to combine their efforts, their talents, their insights, their enthusiasm and their inspiration to work together.”
Queen Elizabeth II led by example instead of passing orders on as many leaders do. She was a believer in servant leadership which signifies leaders should work as a service. She took great pride and devotion in her work of serving others she represented; she had no intentions for personal or financial gain. The Queen took thoughtful responsibility for improving the lives of the people around her, and the world for that matter. Her most famous quote was:
“Throughout all my life and with all my heart I shall strive to be worthy of your trust.”
What made Queen Elizabeth II stand out from so many other leaders was her great respect towards others.
Her motto has always been:
“Respect and be respected.”
She demonstrated gratefulness in every area of her life. Her appreciation for those around her was her greatest asset.
She had a wonderful sense of humor, too! In fact, one time while being publicly interviewed her cell phone rang and she said:
“You better answer that as it may be someone important.”
And perhaps one of her most heartfelt quotes was when Queen Elizabeth II stated:
“Each day is a new beginning, I know that the only way to live my life is to try to do what is right, to take the long view, to give of my best in all that the day brings, and to put my trust in God.”
Written By Kat Jennings, TaxConnections CEO
kat@taxconnections.com/858.999.0053
Executive Search Services – Retained Tax Executive Search
We conduct searches for leading tax executives.
2 comments on “What We Can All Learn From Queen Elizabeth II”
All this and having tea with Paddington which touched the nation’s heart.
Having tea with Paddington with a marmalade sandwich is a priceless moment showing her preparedness, wit and humor. Thanks for the added memories Michael.
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