Who is the real king of the jungle? 
As children we often heard that the lion was the king of the jungle and took it as a fact. But as we grew up, we learned that lions do not actually live in dense forests or jungles but in open places like savannas.
This makes you wonder, why were we taught this seemingly wrong idea? Well, calling the lion the “king of the jungle” is only a metaphorical expression. It is more about what the lion stands for than where it lives. It is a way of saying that in its own home, the lion is the strongest and most powerful.
Despite this contradiction, this metaphor teaches a powerful lesson about leadership. It suggests that true leadership is not about titles or positions, but strength, influence, and the respect you earn from others. So even though the name does not reflect where the lion lives, it signifies something much deeper.
To be a good leader, you need to be strong and able to make tough decisions. But it is also very important to care about the people you are leading. You earn their respect by how you act and help them, whether you are the boss or not.
The phrase also shows that it matters how people view you. A lion is seen as the king, not because it is the biggest or fastest animal, but because of its strong presence and the respect it commands from other animals. This is the same for leaders.
Understanding where you are and who you are leading is really important. Just like a lion knows the savanna is its home, good leaders need to understand the place or group they are leading. They are effective when knowing what their people need and using their strength to help in the best way they can.
Leadership is about showing strength, making smart decisions, and having an impact.
So it is not just about being in charge. Leadership is about showing strength, making smart decisions, having an impact, looking after your group, and earning respect for what you do and how you help others.
While we have talked about the lion as the symbol of strength and leadership, it is worth mentioning that in the real world of these majestic creatures, it is actually the lionesses who run the show.
Yes, the lionesses. They hunt, make strategic decisions for the pride, and keep everything in order. So even though we call the male lion the “king of the jungle,” in reality, he is not even the king in his own home.
It is the lionesses who show us what leading is really about. This demonstrates that sometimes the real leaders are the ones working hard behind the scenes, not just those with the loudest roar.
Take, for example, Mahatma Gandhi. He did not hold a formal title of power, yet his empathy, resilience and adaptability earned him respect and influence worldwide. He led by example, guiding millions with his quiet strength and unwavering dedication.
This means leaders have to continue assessing what they do. Are you leading like the lionesses, with quiet strength? Or are you focusing on titles and positions? Remember, true leadership is about making a meaningful impact, regardless of the title you hold.
• Firas Abussaud is a petroleum engineering systems specialist with more than 21 years of experience in the industry.
