Question

What is the meaning of this quote? "A leader is best when people barely know he exists; when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves."- Laozi

Answer 1

Explanation:  This is a quote from Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu and it reflects a philosophy of leadership that reaches a certain paradox, that is to make all the achievements of a leader so that people think it is their work. In this way, the leader fulfilled his basic function, to provide good to the people, but not to derive personal glory and benefits from it. According to some sociologists, such leadership borders on art that is so well done that it hides the art itself. In this way, besides the good they have from such leadership, people also feel that they are not subordinate to the leader, have a sense of importance and happiness.

Answer 2

The meaning of this quote "A leader is best when people barely know he exists; when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say; we did it ourselves" means if the leader is unknown to many people once he has finished or achieved a remarkable goal other people (such as Laozi) can steal the glory and be remembered for something they didn't do.