Swami Vivekananda was a great leader who inspired many through his teachings and message of universal brotherhood. Some key leadership lessons drawn from him are: 1) believing in oneself and one's mission; 2) being dedicated to work with absolute commitment; 3) facing problems head on rather than avoiding them; and 4) focusing single-mindedly on goals. Swami Vivekananda emphasized qualities like motivating others, having strong intentions and resolutions, and staying disciplined. His life and teachings continue to guide leaders around the world.
2. About Swami Vivekananda
Swami Vivekananda is a name that inspires admiration and awe around the globe. His words and
teachings have influenced the greatest scientists like Nikol Tesla, visionaries like J.R.D Tata to several
top leaders of the countries.
When he spoke in Chicago in the parliament of religions in 1891, the world took notice of his message
of universal brotherhood. His extra ordinary life and mission changed the perspective of foreign
countries towards the cultural superpower, named India.
Swami Vivekananda’s teachings continue to inspire men to live their highest ideals and dedicate
themselves to their highest pursuit. He was a leader who is reminisced by generations and continues
to be a guiding force for leaders of the world.
Swami Vivekananda preached sacrifice, dedication, service and work with absolute commitment. He
aroused the highest capabilities in a man by reminding them of their own divinity that made
anything possible.
India celebrates his birthday as National Youth Day to celebrate the wisdom, teachings and mission
of the soul that illumined the world with his presence. Here we look at the top leadership lessons
from the timeless master.
3. 1. Believe in Yourself
A leader needs to believe in himself, his mission and what he is doing. When you have unwavering
faith and belief, you find ways to accomplish things you want in your life. Difficulties, hardships and
struggle make a true leader more determined to succeed.
“Believe in yourself and the world
will be at your feet.”
-Swami Vivekananda
4. 2. Dedication to Work
All great leaders remain deeply dedicated to their work. It doesn’t matter what you are doing, but
how you are doing it that makes the ultimate difference. Great opportunities are always possible for
the one who is dedicated to what he is doing.
“Even the greatest fool can
accomplish a task if it were after his
or her heart. But the intelligent ones
are those who can convert every
work into one that suits their
taste.”
-Swami Vivekananda
5. 3. Face The Problem
A true leader will always have a mission and purpose in life. He will be ready to fight the world for
it. You cannot solve problems by running away from them. Sooner or later, you will need to face the
problems and conquer your fears. Leaders inspire people to face problems and find solutions for the
benefit of all.
“If you ever feel afraid of anything,
always turn around and face it.
Never think of running away.”
-Swami Vivekananda
6. 4. Focus on the goal
The difference in quality of two men lies in their ability to concentrate. When you focus your mind,
energies and work towards your goals, success is assured. Leaders who work with single pointed
focus are achieve their goals and vision.
“Whatever you are doing, put your
whole mind on it. If you are
shooting, your mind should only be
on the target. Then you will never
miss. If you are learning your
lessons, think only of the lesson.”
-Swami Vivekananda
7. 5. Motivator
Leaders empower their people by believing in them, trusting them and they rise to greatness as a
result. A leader instills belief in others where they can accomplish things that they never thought
were possible. Swami Vivekananda preached about the infinite power that resides in each of us and
how it unleashes itself to help us achieve anything we want.
“All power is within you. You can
do anything and everything. Believe
in that”
-Swami Vivekananda
8. 6. Strong Intentions and Resolutions
A leader always has great intentions, big vision and the resolution to try until he succeeds. When you
are working on a noble mission with the right intentions, you may face hurdles, but you will make it
in the end. Important is not to lose focus, change directions or give up.
Great efforts always lead to great results. Every problem is a challenge that can be overcome when
you have a strong resolve.
“There is no impossible word in the
dictionary of those who lead. No
matter how big a challenge, they can
be resolved with strong intentions
and resolutions.”
-Swami Vivekananda
9. 7. Stay Disciplined
A leader knows the rules of the game. He is the one who sets the benchmark for others to follow.
Leaders take the responsibility, they walk the talk and never ask their teams to do what they wouldnt
do themselves. A leader sets high expectations, standards and ideas for others to follow.
To sum up Swami Vivekananda’s life and selfless leadership, he once said “This life is short, the
vanities of the world are transient, but they alone live who live for others, the rest are more dead than
alive.”
“Leader is one who knows how to
obey commands before knowing
how to command. Learn obedience
first.”
-Swami Vivekananda