the art of leading

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Force breeds force

The Golden Rule applies perfectly to most situations in life, and it certainly does in the Mafia: Treat others as you want to be treated. Albert Anastasia was at one time one of the most powerful mafia bosses. He killed his way to the top, becoming famous for his merciless and cold-blooded murders. “Mad Hatter”, as he was known, killed witnesses that would testify against him in court, and even innocent bystanders. In fact, he ordered the murder of a stranger who bragged about being a witness in a high-profile case. He didn’t even know the guy; he just didn’t “stand squealers”. His prolific violence and hunger for killing made him the head of Murder, Inc., the ‘enforcement’ arm of the National Crime Syndicate. Further on it landed him the job of boss of the Mangano crime family (of course, after killing Vince and Phil Mangano, the original bosses).

Now to my point: do you think nice little Albert retired to Orlando and died a peaceful death product of old age? Umm…He was shot and killed as a man of 54 years old, while at his New York City barbershop in 1957, in a peaceful way you might say. Albert’s story isn’t unique. Perhaps his was in the extreme end of the morbidity spectrum. But in no way is this uncommon in the Mafia. What may not be immediately obvious, though, is that this doesn’t apply only to the Mafia.

It is very probable that you have the experience of working for an aggresive and disrespectful boss. Were your feelings toward that person based on love and respect? Or did you harbor dislike or even hate? Surely you didn’t feel too drawn to that person and did the minimum amount of work necessary to please him, and not because you wanted to. In fact, perhaps you and your co-workers plotted to kick him out!

Families (the normal ones, not the organized crime ones) also slip into the dark habit of using force and might to get things done. As a parent you might yell and punish your child because of a minor accident. This is only natural, but when you start turning that into a habit, then your child, after complying externally, will rebel internally. He or she will harbor fear and apprehension toward you for the rest of his or her life.

The important lesson here is this: If you use force upon others, force will be used upon you. It’s as simple as that. So what are modern leaders supposed to do? Persuade others in a manner in which they are happy to be your followers. Instill your values upon them, in a way that they will cherish your leadership. This will not only favor your permanence as a leader, but will also produce positive energy in the workplace, your home, or wherever your circle of influence is.

Categories : Communication, General Leadership, Mafia //