Timeless Wisdom for Leaders: Cultivating Integrity, Respect, and Thoughtful Communication

8·4 Zengzi was ill, and Meng Jingzi (1) asked (2) about it. Zengzi said, “When a bird is about to die, its cry is sad; when a man is about to die, his words are good. A gentleman values three things in the way he conducts himself: when he moves his facial expression, he distances himself from being rude and arrogant; when he sets his facial expression, he is close to being trustworthy; when he speaks, he distances himself from being vulgar and unreasonable. The affairs of the sacrificial vessels are in the hands of the officials.

[Notes]

(1) Meng Jingzi: Meng Sunjie, a nobleman of the state of Lu.

(2) Wen: to visit.

(3) Move the appearance: make one’s inner feelings manifest in one’s appearance.

(4) Rough and arrogant: rude and presumptuous.

(5) Correct color: make one’s face solemn and serious.

(6) Out of the words: out of words, speaking. Refers to paying attention to the words and tone of speech.

(7) Vile times: vile, rude. Times with the same back, back to the law.

(8) The affairs of the sacrificial vessels and beans: The sacrificial vessels and beans were both used in ancient sacrifices and ceremonies.

(9) The officials in charge: Refers to the officials in charge of certain affairs, here referring to the officials in charge of sacrifices and ceremonies.

Translation

Zengzi was ill, and Meng Jingzi went to visit him. Zengzi said to him, “When a bird is about to die, its cry is sad; when a person is about to die, his words are kind. There are three aspects of the way a gentleman should behave: to make his appearance dignified and solemn, so as to avoid being rude and presumptuous; to make his face serious and solemn, so as to be close to sincerity; to make his words and tone of speech cautious and careful, so as to avoid being rude and unreasonable. As for sacrifices and ceremonies, there are officials in charge of these matters.

Analysis

Zengzi and Meng Jingzi were opposed in political positions. Before he died, Zengzi was still trying to change Meng Jingzi’s attitude, so he said, “When a person is about to die, his words are good.” On the one hand, he confessed that he had no ill will toward Meng Jingzi, and on the other, he told Meng Jingzi the three aspects that a gentleman should pay attention to. These principles still seem very meaningful today. They are of great reference value for personal moral cultivation and harmonious interpersonal relationships.

Confucian teachings, originating from ancient China, hold timeless wisdom that transcends cultural boundaries and remains highly relevant today. One such lesson comes from Zengzi, a prominent disciple of Confucius, who imparted critical guidance on personal conduct and leadership during his final moments. These insights are not only valuable for personal development but also offer profound lessons for modern leaders striving to cultivate integrity, respect, and effective communication within their organizations.

The Context of Zengzi’s Words

Zengzi, suffering from a terminal illness, was visited by Meng Jingzi, a notable statesman. During this poignant encounter, Zengzi shared his reflections on the virtues essential for a gentleman, or junzi, emphasizing the importance of demeanor, appearance, and speech. His teachings are encapsulated in a brief yet powerful discourse, which we will explore in detail to understand their contemporary relevance.

Cultivating a Respectful Demeanor

Zengzi began by highlighting the significance of one’s demeanor. He asserted that a true gentleman should “make their inner feelings evident in their facial expressions,” thereby avoiding arrogance and rudeness. This principle underscores the importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence in leadership. A leader who maintains a composed and respectful demeanor can foster a positive work environment, encourage open communication, and build trust among team members.

In practice, this means being mindful of non-verbal cues and ensuring that one’s body language conveys respect and attentiveness. Leaders who master this art are more likely to earn the respect and loyalty of their colleagues and subordinates.

The Power of a Sincere Appearance

Zengzi further advised that a gentleman should “make their facial expressions serious and solemn,” which brings them closer to sincerity and trustworthiness. This tenet is particularly relevant in the context of leadership, where authenticity is crucial. A leader’s ability to project sincerity through their expressions and actions can significantly impact their credibility and influence.

Authenticity in leadership involves being true to oneself and transparent with others. When leaders demonstrate genuine concern for their team’s well-being and act consistently with their values, they inspire trust and commitment. This authenticity fosters a culture of integrity and mutual respect within the organization.

Thoughtful and Respectful Communication

The third aspect of Zengzi’s advice pertains to speech. He emphasized that a gentleman should “be cautious with their words and tone,” thereby avoiding crudeness and irrationality. Effective communication is a cornerstone of successful leadership. The ability to articulate thoughts clearly and respectfully ensures that messages are understood and valued.

For modern leaders, this means choosing words carefully and delivering them with the right tone to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts. It also involves active listening, which shows respect for others’ opinions and fosters a collaborative environment. Thoughtful communication can bridge gaps, resolve disputes, and enhance overall team cohesion.

Delegating Rituals and Responsibilities

Lastly, Zengzi mentioned the importance of delegating specific duties to competent individuals. He referred to the “officers in charge of rituals and ceremonies,” highlighting the need for specialization and trust in others’ expertise. In a contemporary setting, this translates to empowering team members by delegating responsibilities based on their strengths and skills.

Effective delegation not only streamlines operations but also empowers employees, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability. Leaders who recognize and utilize the unique talents of their team members create a dynamic and efficient work environment.