Imagine a world where almost everyone wakes up inspired to go to work, feels trusted and
valued during the day, then returns home feeling fulfilled. This is not
a crazy, idealized notion. Today, in many successful organizations, greatleaders create environments in which people naturally work together to do remarkable things.
In his work with organizations around the world, Simon Sinek noticed that someteams trust each other so deeply that they would literally put their lives on the line for each other. Other teams, no matter what incentives are offered, are doomed to infighting, fragmentation and failure. Why?
The answer became clear during a conversation with a Marine Corps general. “Officers eatlast,”
he said. Sinek watched as the most junior Marines ate first while the
most senior Marines took their place at the back of the line. What’s
symbolic in the chow hall is deadly serious on the battlefield: Greatleaders sacrifice their own comfort–even their own survival–for the good of those in their care.
Too many workplaces are driven by cynicism, paranoia, and self-interest. But the best ones foster trust and cooperation because their leaders build what Sinek calls a “Circle of Safety” that separates the security inside the team from the challenges outside.
Sinek illustrates his ideas with fascinating true stories that range
from the military to big business, from government to investment
banking.