Understanding the Search for Honour and Glory
Adrian Munro, from Richmind WA joined Doug to discuss how people seek fulfillment through honour, status, and power. “Everyone has an ego,” he said. “For some, their sense of achievement comes from being promoted above others or receiving public recognition.”
However, chasing honour and glory can be unfulfilling. “The ego always wants more,” Adrian explained. “Recognition might feel good at first, but over time, it feels hollow.”
Healthy vs. Unhealthy Recognition
Acknowledgment is important. “People like to be recognised for their work. A simple ‘thank you’ means a lot,” Adrian said.
But the problem arises when recognition turns into a craving for attention. “If you volunteer at a club and someone quietly thanks you, that should be fulfilling,” he said. “But if you expect an award and want everyone to know how much you’ve done—that’s unhealthy.”
Leadership: Power vs. Service
Adrian reflected on leadership motives. “If your goal is just to be in control and tell people what to do, that’s not healthy or constructive.”
As CEO, he sees his role differently. “I’m here to serve the community. I have a responsibility to my staff and to the people we support.”
This applies to politics as well. “With elections coming up, people should ask—are leaders there to serve the community or for their own ego?”
Avoiding Mission Drift
Even leaders with good intentions can drift. “Power and status can be addictive,” Adrian warned. “Someone may start with the right motives but later crave authority for its own sake.”
That’s why accountability matters. “You need honest people around you who can say, ‘I’ve noticed a change in you.’”
Creating a Healthy Workplace
Adrian believes strong leadership isn’t about being the smartest person in the room. “My role is to create an environment where people can use their skills to get the best outcomes.”
Passionate, self-driven people want to make a difference. The key is supporting them so they can do just that.