28 Quotes by François-Xavier Nguyễn Văn Thuận

861 Each individual person is a mystery. If you wish to be a leader, you will need to know all your co-workers, their needs, their interests, their temperaments, and their reactions. You will also need to make an exact assessment of their abilities and determine the right position for each one.

863 Try to put yourself in the position of your co-workers. Exchange points of view with them as a friend, treat them warmly, let them see that you are interested in them, and that you understand them. Such a kindly attitude will inspire them to love and trust you.

864 The honors you receive will not be medals to hang on your chest, citations to frame for your walls, or laudatory speeches. Your work as a leader will be etched in the hearts and on the faces of your co-workers.

865 If you win the hearts of your co-workers they will follow you energetically and devotedly, because they know that you love them sincerely and deeply, and that you would willingly make sacrifices for them. If you do not lead them with love you will have to employ the worst method - force.

866 To win over the hearts of co-workers, the leader must dare to allow them to share closely in his or her work, and have the confidence in his or her authority. The leader must be humble with co-workers, yet retain the dignity of his or her position, mix with them informally while retaining their respect, and request obedience from all when decisions have been made.

198 To exploit people in order to advance your own interests is unworthy of a leader. You will be a worthy leader if you do not distance yourself from people, but mingle with them and risk yourself for their sake.

199 Do not confuse cowardice with prudence. It is because so many people have this kind of “wisdom” that darkness prevails in so many situations.

834 The leader is one who knows, desires, and carries out a mission and who simultaneously stimulates others to know, desire and carry out that mission.

839 If you cannot overcome a spirit of pessimism, a despondent attitude, or a shy disposition, do not be a leader.