This thought, presented by the ancient Chinese philosopher Laozi, is counterintuitive to most people’s perceptions of leadership. Laozi believed that to be the kind of leader people want to follow, you have to have a solid understanding of who you are leading, and that knowledge is best obtained from a position of service rather than of command. This quote suggests that by putting the needs of those under your care above your own, you can better serve them — and if you know how to serve them better, you will become a better leader.