Wake up daily to our latest coverage of business done better, directly in your inbox.
Get your weekly dose of analysis on rising corporate activism.
The best of solutions journalism in the sustainability space, published monthly.
Select Newsletter
By signing up you agree to our privacy policy. You can opt out anytime.
Today is Nelson Mandela's 95th birthday. It's a special day not only because it's an occasion to celebrate one of our planet's most influential leaders, but because it's a day that reminds us that each one of us has the power to create positive change in our world. Mandela Day, celebrated each year on this great man's birthday, has become a platform to "inspire individuals to take action to help change the world for the better, and in doing so build a global movement for good."
Leaders the world over -- from the Dalai Lama to Richard Branson -- have not only paid tribute today to this icon of peace, they've also encourage citizens around the globe to take the Mandela Day Pledge to make a positive impact in their communities. (As part of Branson's pledge, the Virgin Group founder plans to mentor a group of young entrepreneurs.)
As an anti-apartheid revolutionary, former South African President (the first black President of his country) and representative of peace and reconciliation, Mandela has inspired generations of individuals to take a stand and protect human rights and social justice. Below are a few wise words from Mandela that can inspire business leaders on a quest to build a more sustainable world:
Leave Your Ego at the Door
"The ego lies in the fact that I share it with men and women, some of whom are more capable than me. That is my ego."
"Lead from the back — and let others believe they are in front."
Meet People Where They Are
"If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart."
"If you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with your enemy. Then he becomes your partner."
Never Give Up
"It always seems impossible until it's done."
"Do not judge me by my successes, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again."
One of my favorite Mandela quotes is: "We must use time wisely and forever realize that the time is always ripe to do right."
Today is ripe. What will you do today -- and tomorrow -- to give back to your community?
