Leadership (and Humanity) in the Moment: Luke Hancock and Kevin Ware

In the literature of financial advisors, as well as the lexicon of sport, “leadership” and “heroism” are virtually clichés. We read all sorts of articles and books on leadership and heroes. Yet, what really is leadership? What’s a hero? When, and how, does one become a leader…or a hero?

Luke Hancock’s savvy play and heroics on the court during the Final Four led to his being named the Most Outstanding Player for the Louisville Cardinals, the 2013 national champs in NCAA basketball. Yet it was nine days earlier, when Luke Hancock’s true leadership (and humanity) came to the forefront.

If you follow college basketball (and even if you don’t), you must know the Kevin Ware story. During the Elite Eight match-up between Louisville and Duke, Kevin Ware shattered his leg in a freak accident. In reaction to viewing this ghastly injury, everyone on the court—players, officials, and coaches—recoiled in shock and horror.

With one exception -- Luke Hancock immediately ran over to his fallen teammate, knelt down beside him, clenched one of Ware’s hands and patted him on the chest over and over again, while repeating a silent prayer.

Later, Hancock would say that he knew that Ware was scared, and he did not want his teammate to be alone. In truth, Hancock admitted to being as fearful as Ware was, and that it was all that he could do to fight back his own tears.

For financial advisors -- and for all of us -- there are moments in our lives when we will be called upon to support and comfort a fellow human being; a colleague, a client, a relative, a friend or possibly a complete stranger. If Luke Hancock’s response teaches us anything, it is that following our instincts to reach out and help another person during a time of need and distress is the truest form of self-leadership and heroism.

Financial advisors can exhibit leadership in numerous ways. For observations and ideas with respect to how you might demonstrate leadership through your client engagement, please download the ClientWise Learning Tool below: