Dictator vs. Leader

“When good people run things, everyone is glad, but when the ruler is bad, everyone groans.” Proverbs 29:2 (MSG)

I remember in high school when I was about to start doing leadership trainings and I asked a question of some of my classmates in my AP chemistry class what was the difference between a leader and a dictator. Every single one of them said they were the same thing. I was surprised that they all thought a leader and a dictator were the same. We usually equate power, positions, popularity and having people under us to leadership. Some people think they are leaders but in actuality they are dictators. What are the differences between a leader and dictator?

Dictators vs. Leaders

• Dictators demand respect from others. Leaders believe respect is earned then given.
• Dictators have a “ME” mentality. Leaders have a “WE” mentality.
• Dictators are controlling and manipulative. Leaders are guiding and loving.
• Dictators use their power to tear others down. Leaders use their power to unite and build others.
• Dictators use fear and threats to get results. Leaders uses rewards and motivation.
• Dictators blame others for mistakes and failure. Leaders take accountability.
• Dictators have a personal agenda. Leaders have a world vision.
• Dictators tell you what to do. Leaders show you what to do.
• Dictators criticize. Leaders give feedback and advice in love.
• Dictators are prideful. Leaders are humble.
• Dictators want control. Leaders want growth.
• Dictators want to be served. Leaders want to serve.

Everything is different when a dictator is ruling. The environment is toxic, negativity is in the air, people are fearful, morale is low, creativity is drained and there is no productivity. Dictators are unpredictable, you don’t know what mood they’ll be in and you are always having to walk on eggshells when you’re around them. You don’t want to defend them or tick them off in the slightest way. You dread being in their presence. There is a constant feeling of anxiety and performance pressure. You don’t want to make any mistakes around them. It’s not easy to deal with something that is dictatorial. Oftentimes we have to kill them with kindness, pray for them, sometimes lead a revolt or walk away from the organization. God will show us what to do during times like that. Maybe you are placed in that organization for a reason to change it. Stay in tune with God on how He will use you to change it.

How to avoid being a dictator?

I truly believe in the saying “hurt people hurt people.” If you are hurt, you will hurt others. Healed people help people, hurt people hurt people. I deeply believe that a person that is negative and misuses his power has some things that they haven’t dealt with that’s causing them to lash out at others. If you don’t deal with your unhealed wounds, you’ll think you’re leading but in reality you’re bleeding on them. Are you leading or bleeding? Leaders lead, dictators bleed. They inflict their pain on others. If you want to avoid or stop being a dictator and become a leader you must heal before you lead others. You want to prepare others for the future instead of reproduce others that are a byproduct of your damaged past. It’s time to heal and address your issues before you damage others.

The difference between a dictator and a leader is their style and approach to how to deal with others. We have to treat people with respect, motivate instead of manipulate, stop trying to control everything and heal before we deal with the people. Change your approach and watch things change for the best. Are you a leader or a dictator? Be a LEADER! Leaders get the best out of the people and leave a legacy of greatness. Prideful dictators are promised a shameful fall… DICTATORS VS. LEADERS