Leadership Lessons from Confucius: Can-Do Attitudes of Ancient China

6-8 Jikangzi(1) asked, “Can Zhongyu be made to follow politics?” Zi said, “By also fruit (2), in the politics of what?” He said, “Is it possible to make a political career out of giving?” Said: “Wealth also reach (3), in the politics of what?” He said, “What is the point of pursuing politics?” Said: “Seek also art (4), in from politics to what?”

[Notes

(1) Jikangzi: He succeeded his father as the Minister of State of Lu in 492 B.C., when Confucius was traveling around the country. 8 years later, Confucius returned to Lu, and Ran Qiu was helping Jikangzi to carry out innovative measures. Confucius then evaluated these three men.

(2) Fruitful: resolute, decisive.

(3)Da: through and smooth.

(4) Art: talented and skillful.

[Translation

Jikangzi asked Confucius, “Is Zhongyu a person who can be allowed to manage state affairs?” Confucius said, “Zhong Yu is decisive in his work, what difficulty is there for him to manage state affairs?” Ji Kangzi asked again, “Can Duanmu Chi be allowed to manage the state affairs?” Confucius said, “Duanmu Zhi is a sensible man, so what difficulty is there in managing state affairs?” He also asked, “Duanmu Zhi is a decisive man, so what difficulty is there in managing state affairs? Confucius said, “Duanmu Chi is well versed in all things, so what difficulty is there in administering the affairs of state?” He also asked, “Can Ran Qiu be allowed to administer the affairs of state?” Confucius said, “Ran Qiu is talented, what difficulty is there in managing state affairs?”

[Commentary

Duanmu Chi, Zhong Yu and Ran Qiu were all students of Confucius, and they each had their own specialties in engaging in state activities and administrative affairs. The talents cultivated by Confucius were to be able to assist the monarch or minister in political activities. In this chapter, Confucius spoke highly of all three of his students, believing that they were capable of holding important positions.

Confucius, one of China’s most revered philosophers, has imparted wisdom that transcends time and culture. His teachings on leadership and governance remain relevant today, providing valuable insights into the qualities that make an effective leader. In this article, we’ll explore a conversation between Confucius and Ji Kangzi, a high-ranking official, about three of Confucius’s disciples. This discussion reveals key traits essential for successful leadership.

The Conversation

In a dialogue recorded in the Analects, Ji Kangzi inquires about the suitability of three individuals—Zhong You, Duanmu Ci, and Ran Qiu—for governmental roles. Confucius’s responses highlight their distinct qualities:

Zhong You (Zilu): Known for his decisiveness.

Duanmu Ci (Zigong): Praised for his understanding and clear reasoning.

Ran Qiu (Ran You): Recognized for his talents and skills.

Ji Kangzi asks Confucius, “Can Zhong You handle governmental duties?” Confucius responds, “Zhong You is decisive; what difficulty would there be for him in handling governmental duties?” Ji Kangzi then asks about Duanmu Ci, to which Confucius replies, “Duanmu Ci is insightful; what difficulty would there be for him in handling governmental duties?” Finally, Ji Kangzi inquires about Ran Qiu, and Confucius states, “Ran Qiu is talented; what difficulty would there be for him in handling governmental duties?”

Analysis of Leadership Qualities

Confucius’s evaluations offer timeless lessons on leadership:

Decisiveness: Zhong You’s ability to make quick and firm decisions is crucial for effective governance. In modern contexts, leaders must often make timely decisions amidst uncertainty. Decisiveness helps maintain momentum and confidence within an organization or state.

Insightfulness: Duanmu Ci’s clear understanding and logical reasoning are vital for addressing complex issues. Leaders today need to comprehend intricate situations, analyze data, and derive sound conclusions to guide their actions.

Talent and Skill: Ran Qiu’s diverse talents underscore the importance of a well-rounded skill set. Contemporary leaders benefit from a broad range of abilities, allowing them to adapt to various challenges and innovate solutions.

Application in Modern Leadership

Confucius’s insights into leadership can be applied to today’s political, corporate, and community leaders. Here are some practical ways to incorporate these qualities:

Develop Decisiveness: Cultivate the habit of making informed decisions quickly. This involves gathering necessary information, consulting with experts, and trusting one’s judgment.

Enhance Insightfulness: Invest in continuous learning and critical thinking. Engage with different perspectives and analyze situations thoroughly before making decisions.

Foster Talent: Encourage the development of diverse skills within teams. Provide opportunities for training and professional growth, ensuring that team members can contribute effectively in various contexts.