Volodymyr Zelenskyy: Leadership by Example

The world is reeling under the shock of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Of course, no one really knows the outcome of this crisis. But if there’s one thing everyone can agree on, it’s that the Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has handled the situation with immense courage and impressive leadership. It’s easy to panic and indulge in desperate strategies when faced with such a crisis. But Volodymyr Zelenskyy has emerged as a masterful communicator and charismatic leader. Indeed, his management style during this difficult time is bound to go down in history. We saw a shining example of his leadership when he addressed the U.S. Congress from his presidential bunker recently and received a standing ovation. There’s a reason that Volodymyr Zelenskyy is now being counted in the same league as some of the most outstanding leaders the world has ever seen, including Winston Churchill.

How Volodymyr Zelenskyy Lets His Leadership Do The Talking

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has shown the world what leadership presence means. He has used every opportunity presented to him not to merely show his flag but to make a case for his country. Even as things were clearly not going in favor of his country, he did not lose sight of what was important. His dedication to the cause has left the world surprised and impressed. From the day the war began, he exhibited immense strength and stability and advised his people to do the same. He continued to appear on the television and various social media platforms frequently, never seizing to reiterate his resolve. And that’s precisely what we call leading by example. Zelenskyy recognized that this was not the time to stay away from the limelight. He understood he had to come forward for his people. And he did that, putting even his own safety at risk. The world now recognizes Volodymyr Zelenskyy as a master of communication, and understandably so. He did not take a formal pose during the press conferences. Instead, he let the world see the landscape of war behind him as he communicated.

“I think Zelenskyy has proven a master of this moment in ways that we rarely see.” Michael Useem

Indeed, the larger world can learn from Volodymyr Zelenskyy what it is like to be a leader in the true sense. Let’s take a look at give virtues Volodymyr Zelenskyy has shown during this time that can be a lesson for the future.  

Proceeding with Conviction

The greatest leaders are the ones who honor their purpose. They use every available resource, including their talent, education, health, and opportunities, to solve the issues at hand. Even when faced with a rare situation that you hadn’t envisioned, you have to take charge and not shrink away. You have to be the leader your people need you to be.

Courage Never Fails

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has shown what it’s like to be fearless while providing leadership for his country. He has been facing life-threatening conditions. But he did not choose his comfort or safety in these difficult times. Instead, he exhibited valor and courage and proved to the world that he was willing to stand by his people and face every challenge head-on.

Never Lose Composure

It’s when things get challenging and unpredictable that great leaders come to the front. You can’t prepare for the kind of situation Volodymyr Zelenskyy is in. There are no rules or guides that will tell you how to deal with an unprovoked invasion of your country. (And that, too, by a superpower.) But Zelenskyy did not panic. Not for one moment did he lose his composure. He remained calm, rational, and in control. He understood that if he panicked, it would fuel fear in his people. And he prevented that with his demeanor.  

Communication Skills That Deserve Applause

Leaders must be masters of communication. And Volodymyr Zelenskyy has proven to be legendary in this regard. He has put forward his case authentically and truthfully in the best way possible. He has forced the world to take notice. Zelenskyy hasn’t shied away from being blunt while presenting the harsh reality. He has expressed concern about the lack of resources, but not without counting his blessings.

Compassion In Every Form

Great leaders are those who always put others’ needs before their own. And Zelenskyy has done just that. He has put the public interest ahead of his self-interest at every point. Every step he has taken in these testing times has been to benefit his people and make the world realize the crisis.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy: Writing a Legacy To Remember

Countless historians, journalists, and political experts have described Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s reign as one to remember. Indeed, his story, right from the beginning, is filled with surprises. He has broken conventions at every step along the way. How else can you suddenly explain a former actor and comedian coming to serve a term at the public office? And then face a crisis like no other? His approach in these testing times has been inspirational and will be remembered for a long time to come. It’s common to look at the past to understand the present and future. And Volodymyr Zelenskyy is one of those inspiring leaders who will teach generations to come how to face a crisis without losing their calm. People describe Zelenskyy as a person for the ages. And they aren’t really wrong. Of course, the crisis is far from over. We don’t really know how effective his actions are going to be. No one can predict whether his country will be able to fight off the Russian aggression with success. But no one can deny the impact his words have. His dedication to his purpose is indeed moving. The world has gotten a legendary leader whose fate remains unknown. But his legacy will definitely go down in history.