Feature - Celebrating 78 Years of Independence

By Timothy A. Edward

This week we celebrated our 78th Independence. Many leaders have played their historic part in shaping Sri Lanka into the nation it is today. Their journeys remind us that leadership is not only about guiding a country but also about influencing lives and building success in personal and organisational spheres.

Leadership and Influence

Leadership is about influence. Every day, leaders impact countless people through their decisions and actions. Our effectiveness in life and work is determined by our leadership abilities. History shows that in times of crisis, nations and organisations look for new leadership to overcome challenges. Sri Lanka too has elected new presidents and prime ministers during difficult times, proving that leadership ability is the lid on effectiveness.

The Lifelong Journey of Leadership

Leadership is not an instant achievement - it is a lifelong process. The ability to lead effectively is a collection of skills that can be learned and improved. This is why leadership seminars and continuous learning are vital. Successful leaders are lifelong learners, disciplined, and perseverant. They identify areas for growth and through daily discipline master those skills. As the saying goes, champions are not made in the ring; they are recognised there. Champions are born through daily routine.

Self-Awareness and Discipline

Leadership begins with self-awareness and self-discipline. Talent alone is not enough; it must be sharpened and polished to benefit others and society. Excuses and procrastination hinder growth. Challenges will come, but true leaders focus on doing what is right rather than choosing convenience. Every success has a price, and every achievement requires sacrifice.

The Pareto Principle in Leadership

In business circles, the Pareto Principle - also known as the 20/80 principle - reminds us that 20 per cent of our priorities produce 80 per cent of our results. As we celebrate independence, it is worth reflecting on our nation’s top 20 per cent priorities and channelling resources toward them. This principle, when applied consciously, can transform both personal and national progress.

Vision: The Spark of Leadership

Vision is the driving force of leadership. Leaders without vision go nowhere, because vision leads the leader. It sparks passion and fuels determination. History shows that when national leaders present compelling visions suited to their times, those visions lead the nation forward.

Trust: The Foundation of Leadership

Trust is essential in leadership. Once broken, it cannot sustain the same level of influence. Violating trust jeopardises leadership effectiveness. The failures of past leaders remind us that trust must be preserved, for it is the foundation upon which leadership stands.

Our Role in Leadership Today

As we celebrate 78 years of independence, we honour the leaders who have guided this nation. But now, it is our turn. Whether in business or community, each of us has a role to play in leadership. The true measure of our leadership will be seen in the successors we raise and the legacy we leave behind.

Independence is not only about freedom - it is about responsibility. The responsibility to lead with vision, discipline, and trust. The responsibility to influence positively and to prepare future leaders who will carry the torch forward. As we step into the future, let us commit to becoming leaders who inspire, empower, and transform. For the strength of our nation lies not only in its past leaders but in the leaders we choose to become today.