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What makes a person truly great? Is it power, prestige, or personal success? For centuries, greatness has often been associated with rising above the crowd—being faster, smarter, or richer than the rest. But in this quote, Montesquieu invites us to rethink everything we believe about what it means to be great.

🧠 Rethinking Greatness

Charles-Louis de Secondat, better known as Montesquieu, was an 18th-century French philosopher whose work laid the groundwork for modern democracy. Famous for The Spirit of the Laws and his advocacy for the separation of powers, Montesquieu was no stranger to ideas of leadership, influence, and authority.

Yet, in this quote, he flips the traditional model of greatness on its head.

To stand with people means to lead with empathy, humility, and connection—not dominance. It means recognizing that true influence grows through solidarity, not superiority.

Montesquieu’s message is clear: If your success distances you from others, it isn’t truly success.

💡 What It Means Today

In our modern world—where competition is fierce and image often seems more important than substance—Montesquieu’s words bring us back to something more grounded and real: Greatness comes from being in it with others.

Here’s how this philosophy applies in everyday life:

1. Lead by Serving

The best leaders don’t command from the top—they serve from the center. They’re in the trenches, listening, helping, and lifting others. That’s how trust is built.

2. Connection Over Control

You don’t inspire people by towering above them. You inspire them by walking beside them, sharing in the journey, and being fully present.

3. Humility Wins

Success should never be used as a pedestal. When you remain grounded and accessible, your impact grows—not just your reputation.

4. Create Community, Not Hierarchy

Whether at work, in a family, or within a cause, building relationships based on mutual respect and shared goals creates lasting change.

🔍 A Look at the Origins

Montesquieu lived during a time of monarchies and rigid class divisions, yet he believed in shared power and democratic principles. His belief that greatness means standing with people reflects a deep understanding of what it takes to create fairness, justice, and enduring influence.

🧭 A Compass for the Modern Leader

The next time you're in a position of leadership, authority, or even personal growth, ask yourself:

Am I standing with people, or standing above them?

The answer may determine not only the impact you have—but the legacy you leave behind.

📚 Resource List: Explore Further

Here are some hand-picked books, articles, and videos to deepen your understanding of Montesquieu’s philosophy and the power of servant leadership:

Books

• The Spirit of the Laws by Montesquieu – A classic work on justice, liberty, and power.

• Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek – On why great leaders prioritize people.

• Dare to Lead by Brené Brown – The role of empathy and vulnerability in leadership.

• Servant Leadership by Robert K. Greenleaf – The foundation of servant leadership theory.

• The Leadership Challenge by Kouzes & Posner – Practical insights on values-based leadership.

Articles & Essays

• “What Is Servant Leadership?” – Harvard Business Review

• “Why Humble Leaders Make the Best Leaders” – Forbes

• Montesquieu Profile – Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy

Videos & Talks

• Simon Sinek – “Why Good Leaders Make You Feel Safe” (TED Talk)

• Brené Brown – “The Power of Vulnerability” (TED Talk)

• Montesquieu and the Separation of Powers – CrashCourse (YouTube)