The phrase “Those who can’t do, teach” has never sat well with me. It’s often tossed around to dismiss the teaching profession, implying that educators somehow lack the ability to succeed elsewhere. But in truth, this couldn’t be further from reality. Teaching is not a fallback or a consolation prize—it’s one of the highest forms of leadership, requiring profound skill, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to service.
As someone who deeply values humility in leadership, this phrase doesn’t just feel wrong—it feels harmful. It undermines the extraordinary work of those who dedicate their lives to shaping the minds, futures, and character of others. Teaching, in my view, is an art grounded in humility. It’s about stepping back so others can step forward, creating an environment where curiosity can flourish, and equipping others to thrive in ways they may not have thought possible.
Teaching as Leadership in Service
At its heart, teaching is leadership of the highest order. Great teachers don’t just deliver lessons; they guide, inspire, and nurture. They listen intently, adapt to individual needs, and bring out the best in their students—not for personal gain, but because they believe in the potential of those they serve. This level of care requires a unique combination of humility, patience, and expertise.
Humility is often misunderstood. It’s not about diminishing yourself—it’s about recognizing that your role as a leader is to elevate others. Teachers embody this every day. They don’t seek the spotlight for themselves but instead shine it on their students. Whether they’re helping someone grasp a difficult concept or encouraging them to dream bigger, teachers lead by fostering growth in others. This is the essence of servant leadership and a principle I strive to incorporate into my own management style.
The Talents of Teachers
The idea that teachers “can’t do” completely ignores the breadth of skills teaching demands. Teachers are experts in their fields, communicators, problem-solvers, and motivators all rolled into one. They navigate complex dynamics, tailor their approaches to different learning styles, and juggle countless responsibilities—often with limited resources. These are not just “teaching skills”; they’re essential life skills and critical leadership qualities.
Consider the emotional intelligence it takes to connect with a room full of students, each with unique personalities, struggles, and strengths. Or the creativity and adaptability required to explain the same concept in ten different ways until it finally clicks for a student. These are talents that extend far beyond the classroom and mirror the very skills needed to lead effectively in any context—whether in a business, a team, or a community.
And let’s not forget that teaching often forms the foundation for every other profession. Every scientist, artist, doctor, and leader started as a student, guided by the passion and expertise of a teacher. Teachers don’t just pass on knowledge—they help create it, shape it, and inspire others to build upon it. They are the architects of the future.
Lessons from Teaching in My Leadership Style
As a manager, I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about having all the answers or commanding attention. It’s about listening, adapting, and empowering others to succeed. These are lessons I’ve drawn directly from observing great teachers and reflecting on their example. For instance, I’ve seen teachers take time to understand the unique learning styles of their students—something I’ve applied by tailoring my communication and support to fit the diverse personalities and strengths of my team. I’ve also witnessed teachers adapt their lessons mid-class to better engage a student who was struggling, inspiring me to remain flexible in my approach when a strategy or plan isn’t working. Additionally, I’ve been struck by how teachers celebrate small wins to build confidence and momentum—an example I’ve followed by publicly recognizing team members’ contributions and encouraging their growth in ways that make them feel valued and capable.
In my role, I’ve found myself approaching challenges the way a teacher might. Whether it’s helping a team member navigate a tricky situation, creating tools that make someone else’s job easier, or learning alongside my team when I don’t have all the answers, I’ve learned to embrace humility as a core part of leadership. Just as a teacher’s success is reflected in the growth of their students, I believe a leader’s success is measured by the success of their team.
Reframing the Narrative
It’s time to move past the outdated notion that teaching is somehow “less than.” Teaching is an extraordinary act of leadership, requiring a combination of technical skill, emotional intelligence, and humility that few other professions demand. It’s one of the most impactful roles in our society, and the people who take on this responsibility deserve our admiration and respect.
The next time someone says, “Those who can’t do, teach,” I hope they’ll pause to reflect on the teachers who shaped their own lives. Teachers who stayed late to help them understand, who encouraged them to dream, and who made them feel seen and valued. These are not people who “can’t do.” They are leaders, innovators, and champions for the greater good.
As someone who has benefited from the example of great teachers, I can say with confidence that their impact is immeasurable. They teach us not just knowledge, but how to lead with humility, how to serve others, and how to believe in the potential of people. Those who teach don’t just teach—they lead, inspire, and transform. And that is among the most extraordinary things anyone can do.