From nearly all feedback we have received from our visitors over the past three years, the consistent message is this: our museum educates and inspires. Visitors leave with a deeper understanding of servant leadership — and a personal motivation to engage in it — through the stories of world-renowned servant leaders displayed here. In this article, we present the seven practices of servant leadership as they are illustrated throughout the museum.
1. Service before leadership
Servant leaders always remember the primacy and supremacy of providing service above all else. Being a servant comes first; leadership flows from that commitment.
| “I am first a servant, second a leader.” |
2. Listening
Servant leaders learn and practice attentive, unhurried listening. They do not merely wait to speak — they listen to understand, and then listen again.
| “I am listening to you. Tell me more.” |
3. Empathy
Servant leaders cultivate genuine empathy for everyone around them. They recognize the full humanity of each person and respond with care — especially in moments of struggle.
| “I see your humanity and show care for your pain.” |
4. Healing
Servant leaders take responsibility for the wellbeing of others. They actively seek to ease pain and mend wounds — within whatever capacity they have.
| “How can I help and heal you within my capacity?” |
5. Community Building and the Circle of Humanity Orientation
Servant leaders believe in belonging to something larger than themselves. They understand that someone invested in their growth — and now it is their turn to invest in others.
| “I am a contributing and caring member of the community. Someone cared for me so I could grow. Now it’s my turn to show care for others.” |
6. Conceptualizing a hopeful vision
Servant leaders think beyond the present. They are thoughtful planners who imagine a better future — not just for a few, but for all — and work deliberately toward it.
| “I visualize and plan for a future of peace, prosperity, and progress for all.” |
7. Stewardship
Servant leaders are careful keepers of what has been entrusted to them — resources, institutions, and the natural world. They eliminate waste and abuse, and live in harmony with the planet.
| “I believe in preserving nature and living in harmony with plants and animals.” |
These seven practices are brought to life through the stories, artifacts, and exhibits of the International Servant Leaders Museum. We invite you to visit and discover how these timeless principles continue to shape a more compassionate and just world.
