"The general who advances without coveting fame and retreats without fearing disgrace, whose only thought is to protect his country and do good service for his sovereign, is the jewel of the kingdom."

The core idea here is really about selflessness in leadership. It’s about the kind of leader who isn't driven by personal glory or afraid of what others might think. Instead, this leader focuses solely on the greater good—protecting and serving their people and their country. This type of leader, according to the quote, is incredibly valuable—like a rare gemstone.

Now, let’s take a step back and think about when and why this might have been said. This quote comes from Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War,” written over 2,000 years ago. Sun Tzu was a Chinese military strategist, and his advice was aimed at generals and military leaders. In his time, and even today, the temptation for leaders to seek personal glory or to avoid actions out of fear of criticism can be very strong. By highlighting the importance of selfless service, Sun Tzu was emphasizing the qualities that make an effective and honorable leader.

Imagine a modern-day scenario where this principle comes into play. Think about a CEO of a large company during a financial crisis. Instead of making decisions to protect their own reputation or to secure a big bonus, the CEO focuses on what’s best for the company and its employees. Maybe they decide to cut their own salary to avoid laying off workers or choose to invest in long-term stability rather than short-term gains. This kind of leadership is rare, but it’s what can turn a struggling company around and earn the deep respect and loyalty of its employees.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? Whether you’re leading a team at work, coaching a sports team, or even just managing a household, think about the bigger picture. Ask yourself: What’s the best decision for the group, not just for me? It might mean making a tough call that isn’t popular. It might mean giving credit to others for their hard work or stepping back when someone else is better suited for a task. Real leadership is about service, not glory.

Let me tell you a story to illustrate this. Picture a small town with a beloved mayor. This mayor doesn’t have grand ambitions for higher office. Instead, she’s dedicated to improving her town. One winter, the town faces a massive snowstorm. Roads are blocked, people are stranded, and supplies are running low. The mayor doesn’t wait for praise or worry about criticism. She rolls up her sleeves and helps dig out cars, knocks on doors to check on the elderly, and organizes volunteers to distribute food and blankets. She doesn’t do it for the cameras or the news articles; she does it because it’s what her town needs. In the end, the town gets through the crisis, and the mayor’s actions speak louder than any words.

In essence, this quote from Sun Tzu teaches us that true leadership is about prioritizing the well-being of others over personal gain. It’s about integrity, selflessness, and dedication. So next time you’re in a position to lead, remember—think about what’s best for the team. Be the kind of leader who, like a rare jewel, shines through actions rooted in genuine care and service.