The Spark ("The Moon Cannot Be Stolen)
koan
A thief asked the Zen Master, "Is there anything you don't steal?" The Master replied, "The moon. I leave it in the sky."
This Zen koan embodies the buddhist teaching on letting go. It speaks to the ungraspable nature of certain experiences. The Zen Master's response shows the apprentice that some things are beyond possession, and trying to take them would be a futile effort.
If we extrapolate this insight to the leadership life, it helps us reflect that leaders should embrace the importance of humility to learn to recognize the limits of control. Good leaders must let go of the desire to control every aspect, instead focus on creating an environment where others can flourish.
We believe that it is difficult to let go but, in truth, it is much more difficult and painful to hold and protect. Letting go doesn’t impoverish us, it helps us discover peace. Just as the moon's light and beauty is shared by all, leaders who let go of control and empower their teams to shine collectively reach higher and create lasting impact.
“Lead yourself, Learn to live. Lead others, Learn to Build.”
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At the personal level no, it doesn't come easy many times. From a leadership perspective is a different concept and yes, it is a very important part of growing as a manager and a leader.
This zen koan is so beautiful and so true! Letting go of things we cannot control... to gain humility and peace... I see so many people around me not being able to do it and it brings so much turmoil and prevents them from moving forward. I was guilty of it in the past but getting better. Thank you for sharing Sebastian! Does letting go come easy to you?