Star Wars fans… Get ready; you might like this one.

Like many people my age, we grew up watching Star Wars. Now that we are older watching the spin-offs and seeing how the storylines are bridged is fun. Also, it might take us back to our youth…

So, the new Star Wars spin-off of Ashoka is out, and we watched the first two episodes the other night. While watching, my daughter, Breana, pointed out that Ashoka’s lightsaber was white when wielded. Interesting, I thought, and then asked, “Why not green or blue like the Jedi?” Breana said that Ashoka is not affiliated with the Jedi or the Sith. I assumed that since Ashoka’s role was “good,” her lightsaber would be Jedi color.

So… the leadership segue:

I believe a leadership analogy can be drawn from the Jedi and Sith lightsabers in the vast galaxy of leadership styles. The choice of lightsaber color mirrors the fundamental contrast between selfishness and servant leadership. We usually know what role each plays by watching, but just in case we do not, we know exactly who they are as soon as their lightsaber is wielded. Everyone has a tale… and the lightsaber color does just that. Core values seen at the core…

The Sith – Red lightsabers – The Dark Side of the Force…

Love or hate them (gotta love Darth Vader, though), they radiate an aura of power, dominance, and egocentrism. They relish control and authority at any cost. Leaders with these traits are often driven by personal ambition, seeking power and influence solely for their own benefit, prioritizing their own interests over the well-being of others. The most cringing aspect is their fostering an environment of fear and submission. In essence, they want others to cower before them.

The Jedi – Green or Blue lightsabers – The Good Side of the Force…

These leaders embody the essence of servant leadership. Blue symbolizes guardianship and responsibility, while green represents harmony and growth (I had to look at a few Star Wars fan pages to figure this out). Leaders who align with these colors embrace humility, empathy, and a deep commitment to serving. Collaboration, mentorship, and the greater good are at the forefront of this leadership style. They empower, creating an atmosphere of trust and shared purpose. Their selflessness inspires loyalty and creates a legacy that outlasts anything present.

Yoda often said to look within oneself to Obi-Wan and Luke. This underscores the importance of self-awareness and the purpose of one’s leadership. Leaders should reflect on their motivations and recognize whether they are veering towards the dark path of selfishness or embracing the principles of servant leadership. But we know that selfish leaders do not do this. Authentic leaders find their success is intertwined with growth and prosperity.

As for our own leadership journey? We are faced with choices that can either cultivate a legacy that transcends individual ambitions, leaving a lasting positive impact, or be for ourselves. We must ask ourselves daily, what leadership lightsaber will I wield? This question reminds us that leadership is a choice—a reflection of our values and beliefs. The choice between red, blue, or green is akin to the choices leaders make every day: to serve oneself or to serve others.

I’ll close with this… Yoda has many great quotes and one-liners, but this one may be my favorite… In Star Wars: The Clone Wars – Season 1 Episode 1 “The Ambush” – Yoda said, “Hmm. In the end, cowards are those who follow the dark side.”

Go be a great educator and leader today… Our future needs it…