In the realm of Early Childhood Development (ECD), leaders are often faced with choices that test their resolve: conform to the noise or stand firm in wisdom.
As I reflect, “Being hated by fools is the price you pay for refusing to be one”, and I believe that this is speaking directly to the heart of ECD leadership, where integrity and emotional intelligence are the bedrocks of transformative change.
There is a quiet tax that comes with wisdom. The moment you choose discipline over drama, truth over trends, and principles over popularity, you automatically become “strange” to those who live without direction.
Being hated by fools is not a curse; it is often confirmation. When you refuse to laugh at foolishness, participate in gossip, chase shortcuts, or celebrate corruption, you threaten those who do. Your very existence becomes a mirror they do not want to look into.
In ECD, this wisdom translates to leaders who prioritise the best interests of children over convenience or appeasement.
When you champion quality education, equity, and child-centered practices, you may unsettle systems resistant to change. Yet, this is where emotional intelligence becomes a leader’s superpower: navigating resistance with empathy while staying anchored in purpose.
As African proverbs remind us, “The lizard that refuses to dance with the crowd is called proud,” and “When a fool is applauded, the wise man is questioned” and this African wisdom is what inspired me as a leader.
Society sometimes rewards noise more than knowledge. If you choose integrity, you may lose shallow friendships, but you gain self-respect-a currency that never loses value.
Fools dislike what exposes them. When you work hard, the lazy feel insulted. When you speak truth, the dishonest feel attacked. When you stay focused, the distracted feel judged but remember: “The sun does not argue with darkness; it simply shines” and always remember this African proverb. Your role is not to convince everyone. Your role is to remain steady.
Lessons for ECD Leaders
1. Not everyone’s approval is worth having.
2. Integrity will sometimes isolate you before it elevates you.
3. Criticism from fools is often evidence of growth.
4. Standing alone is better than standing wrong.
As I conclude, “Do not shrink yourself to fit into small minds. If foolish people dislike you for choosing wisdom, consider it a badge of honour”.
Conclusion
In ECD leadership, wisdom is not just about knowledge-it is about courage. It is about shining light in dark corners, even when shadows resist.
Let your integrity be the legacy you leave behind and remember: the price of wisdom is worth every penny.
Rex Molefe
(The Director of Motheo Training Institute Trust)
