Authority figures

Authority is not a black and white concept, and not all those in positions of authority are to be respected.

Just because someone is in a position greater than you doesn’t mean that they deserve your respect. Good leaders know how to earn trust from their followers.

How many times have you been inspired by a teacher who made your education more important than your friendships, or learned from a supervisor who cared about who you were as a person just as much as the hours you worked?

I’m not saying to thumb your nose at all authority. Without leaders, nothing would get done. Just remember to always use your own judgment.

Sometimes people who do not deserve respect are placed in powerful positions. That does not make them worthy of your trust or admiration. It means that you need to be aware enough to know when you are being mistreated.

Most people in authority deserve to be there. They will earn their position. Good leaders inspire and create other good leaders.

So be discerning. Know true authority when you see it.

Recognize and adopt the characteristics of those who inspire you. Authority is not about leader and follower. It’s about working together towards a shared goal.

Sometimes people are able to come together and move the world in ways it has never moved before. It just takes the right kind of authority.

­— ewenning@indiana.edu