Leadership Learning from Plato: Quote #2 - Power Reveals Character
- Peter F Gallagher
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Plato (c. 427–347 BCE), alongside his teacher Socrates and student Aristotle, is a foundational figure of Western philosophy. His dialogues explored ethics, politics, metaphysics, and knowledge. For over two thousand years, his wisdom has shaped our understanding of truth, courage, integrity, and moral purpose, qualities that remain essential for leadership today.
Prelude:
Every journey of leadership reveals character. Before we can be trusted with power, we must learn to master ourselves — our thoughts, our fears, and our habits. Leadership is not defined by position or authority, but by what we choose to do when influence is within our grasp.
"The measure of a man is what he does with power." ~ Plato
Reflection:
True change leadership is revealed in moments of power. When leaders regulate their emotions, align their actions with their values, and act with moral clarity, they create the conditions for trust and transformation. Power does not corrupt — it exposes. Self‑discipline remains the quiet architect of behaviour, shaping integrity, resilience, and the possibility of lasting change. Leadership is not tested in silence, but in the choices made when others are watching.
Application to Leadership of Change®:
Plato’s wisdom speaks directly to modern leadership. In organisational change, the leader’s self‑discipline sets the tone for the entire culture. When leaders master their impulses, they create clarity, consistency, and trust — the conditions in which people can adapt and thrive. Self‑discipline is not merely a personal virtue; it is a leadership responsibility. By embodying truth, courage, integrity, and moral purpose, leaders show others how to act with resilience and conviction in times of uncertainty.
Further Reading: Change Management Leadership - Leadership of Change® Volume 4.
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Peter consults, speaks, and writes on the Leadership of Change®.
He works exclusively with boards, CEOs, and senior leadership teams to prepare and align them to effectively and proactively lead their organisations through change and transformation.
For insights on navigating organisational change, feel free to reach out at Peter.gallagher@a2B.consulting or schedule a free consultation
Peter F. Gallagher is a leadership guru, change management global thought leader, organisational change authority, international corporate conference speaker, 15X author, and C-level change leadership coach.
Listed #7 in the “Top 30” for Global Gurus Leadership (2025) by Global Gurus.
Ranked #1 Change Management Global Thought Leader: Top 50 Global Thought Leaders and Influencers on Change Management (2025-2024-2023-2022-2021-2020) by Thinkers360.
Listed #1 by leadersHum Top 40 Change Management Gurus You Should Follow in 2022 (Mar 2022).
Ranked #1 Business Strategy Global Thought Leader: Top 50 Global Thought Leaders and Influencers on Business Strategy (2025) by Thinkers360.
Ranked #6 Leadership Global Thought Leader: Top 50 Global Thought Leaders and Influencers on Leadership (April 2024) by Thinkers360.
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