Leadership wasn’t a theoretical concept to Confucius. It was rather a set of qualities and behaviors that you should cultivate in order to guide your thoughts and actions. This presentation summarizes some of the most important characteristics that Confucius believed a leader (君子/jūnzǐ) should possess using quotes from Book 1 of the Analects.

1. Confucius on Leadership
Book 1 of the Analects
君子
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2. The Model Leader
jūnzǐ
“gentleman”, “nobleman”, “superior
man”, “man of superior order”,
“man of virtue”, “ideal man”,
“cultivated man”, “exemplary man”,
“refined man”
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君子

3. Persevere without expecting any rewards
“To remain unconcerned when others don’t recognize
your talents: isn’t this the mark of a leader?”
Book 1, Chapter 1
The Analects
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「人不知而不慍，不亦君子乎？」

4. Take your work seriously
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Book 1, Chapter 8
The Analects
“If a leader isn’t serious he will inspire no awe and
lack a solid foundation for learning.”
「君子不重，則不威，學則不固。」

5. Be loyal and trustworthy
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Book 1, Chapter 8
The Analects
“Hold loyalty and trustworthiness as
your highest principles”
「主忠信」

6. Surround yourself with the right people
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Book 1, Chapter 14
The Analects
“A leader …. keeps the company of others who possess
the Way so that he can be corrected by them. ”
「君子…. 敏於事而慎於言，
就有道而正焉」

7. Recognize and correct your mistakes
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Book 1, Chapter 8
The Analects
“When you make a mistake, don’t be afraid to
correct yourself”
「過則勿憚改」

8. Stay humble
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Book 1, Chapter 14
The Analects
“A leader eats without stuffing his belly (and)
chooses a home without demanding comfort”
「君子食無求飽，居無求安」

9. Be decisive but cautious
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Book 1, Chapter 14
The Analects
“A leader … is quick to act but
careful in what he says”
「君子… 敏於事而慎於言」

10. Leadership Qualities
Seriousness
Decisiveness
Self-improving
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Humility
Judgment
Perseverance
Loyalty
Humility
Caution
君子
Trustworthiness