Several Buddhist frameworks provide guidance for making decisions regarding leadership. Key attributes to look for in a leader include: 1)They act in alignment with the eightfold path, particularly right motivation, which is essential in determining the benefit of our actions. 2) They avoid causing harm (ahimsa). 3) They strive to benefit others (the four immeasurables). 4) They steer clear of the three poisons—greed (raga), hatred (dvesha), and delusion (moha). 5) They practice the three antidotes – generosity (dana), lovingkindness (maitri/metta), and wisdom (prajna).

A leader with right motivation also cultivates right mindfulness, which involves being fully aware of their thoughts, feelings, and actions in the present moment, as well as the possible long-term consequences. This clarity helps them discern situations more accurately and make the right decisions, ensuring that their actions are thoughtful and aimed at benefiting others.

Motivation significantly influences the outcome of a person’s actions and their impact on the world. Leaders driven by altruistic motivation tend to benefit many beings, while those motivated by selfish interests often cause harm to others. We all have a part to play in fostering wise leadership. An honorable person is one who cares for others. The Buddha taught that thoughts, words, and actions have consequences, and that motivation is a key factor that affects the outcome. This is amplified when a person is in a position of power.

Reflect on how leadership impacts them personally. Evaluate the words and actions of the leaders of the various systems that they are a part of (family, school, nation, world, or beyond) to infer what motivations these leaders may have, and reflect on how their actions have a beneficial, harmful, or neutral impact on themselves and others.

• What motivation might our current leaders have?
• Can we see evidence of the three poisons or the three antidotes in their words or actions?

Analyze the motivations behind leaders’ decisions by evaluating evidence of the three poisons versus the three antidotes in their words and actions. Compare how leaders with altruistic versus self-serving motivations impact their communities, then develop criteria for assessing whether leadership decisions align with Buddhist principles of non-harm and benefit to others.