Character in Action: How True Leaders Treat Others
Simon Sinek’s book Leaders Eat Last delivers a quote that defines leadership, integrity, and character:
"You can easily judge the character of a man by how he treats those who can do nothing for him."
This concept isn’t new—it’s one that great leaders, coaches, and mentors have echoed for years. It reminds me of something Don Meyer, the legendary college basketball coach, used to say repeatedly:
"The measure of someone—their character—is how they treat the elderly and young kids. Those who can do nothing for them in return."
Think about that for a second. How do people treat those who can’t offer them status, power, or personal gain? That’s where real character is revealed.
For leaders, this quote is even more profound. Too often, leadership is seen as a position of authority, where influence flows in one direction—from the top down. But true leadership is about serving, supporting, and uplifting those you lead.
And that’s where the real test of character begins.
Great Leaders Serve, Not Command
You know what? People follow leaders who serve them, not just those who manage them.
In many organizations, leaders get disconnected from the people they lead. They focus on numbers, metrics, and strategy—but they forget about the human beings who make it all happen.
Imagine a workplace where leaders genuinely cared, where every decision was made with this question in mind:
"How can I help my team today?"
That’s another principle Don Meyer believed in—he would challenge his coaches every day with the thought:
"Think of your team today. What do they need, and how can I help?"
Now, apply that to leadership in business. If every executive, manager, or entrepreneur approached their team with that mindset, the culture of their organization would be transformed overnight. Because leadership isn’t about power—it’s about responsibility.
Your Character Is Shown in the Small Moments
It’s easy to put on a show when people are watching. But character isn’t about public perception—it’s about the choices we make when no one is paying attention.
How do you treat:
✔ The intern who just started last week?
✔ The janitor who cleans the office late at night?
✔ The young athlete who doesn’t get playing time?
✔ The customer who isn’t going to spend big money with you?
The way you interact with those who can’t offer you anything in return says everything about who you are.
And if you’re a leader—whether in business, sports, or life—people are watching. They’re taking notes. They see how you treat others. And that’s what determines whether they trust, respect, and want to follow you.
Because true leadership isn’t about titles. It’s about impact.
Three Actions to Lead with Character Today
✅ Find one person today who can do nothing for you—and help them anyway.
✅ Ask yourself: "What does my team need today, and how can I support them?" Then act on it.
✅ Treat everyone with the same respect—whether they’re a CEO, a janitor, or a child. Character doesn’t change based on who’s watching.
How Do You Lead?
At the end of the day, leadership isn’t about what you get—it’s about what you give.
Simon Sinek challenges us to look at how we treat others, especially those with nothing to offer in return. Because that’s where true leadership lives.
So ask yourself: Are you leading with character? Are you serving, helping, and supporting those around you?
Because great leaders don’t just inspire respect—they earn it through their actions.
Join a Community of Leaders Who Serve and Inspire
If you want to lead with impact and build a culture of trust, respect, and service, join our community. Let’s create meaningful leadership—together.
