Conscious Leadership: Leading through change and purpose

Conscious Leadership

I have had it with traditional leadership models. Don´t you feel the same?

Traditional leadership models, which typically focused on command-and-control practices, adherence to strict hierarchies, and bottom-line results, are deemed insufficient in today’s professional landscape. This could be due to various reasons such as evolving workforce expectations, increasing complexity in business operations, or greater emphasis on corporate social responsibilities.

These are the old traditional playbooks for leadership that no longer hold good in a changed professional landscape. It is conscious leadership, then, that becomes the lighthouse. This idea redefines how we think about our roles in our teams and organization; a standard is set that holds purpose and people higher.

The definition of Conscious leadership has more to it than just being a buzzword. It is more an approach to leadership that elegantly melds self-awareness with a piercing sensitivity towards the needs of others and the impacts that decisions will have on them. Today, in this multi-faceted, new global environment, where all kinds of stakeholders are more and more aware of corporate impacts, conscious leadership holds the potential to devise a sustainable and inclusive growth model. This is a type of leadership that hinges on the 'why' of our actions and not just the 'what' and the 'how'.

This is very relevant to the world.

Value of Purpose

Think of a ship at sea. The person at the helm, clear in purpose, not only steers the ship but also rouses the entire crew. Similarly, when a leader articulates a clear, compelling purpose, they don't just steer the organization—they energize the entire team. This appreciation and communication are paramount; they align the efforts of the team and inspire creativity while also providing a buffer against burnout by linking day-to-day activities to a greater mission

Cultivating a culture of generosity

Leadership has largely been focused on results, but what if the focus shifts to generosity? The altruism of a leader can completely turn around the dynamics of the workplace to a point where innovation is encouraged. This is as a result of whenever leaders act generously in sharing credit for success and by investing in growing their team, chances are employees will be empowered and feel valued. This sets in a culture of generosity in the company, which allows one to take risks and do creative problem-solving—important for organizational growth and resilience.

Making vulnerability the path to great leadership

Traditionally, the corporate world views vulnerability as a weakness. However, conscious leaders see it as a form of strength that fosters genuine interactions. By embracing vulnerability, they can build trust with their teams, encouraging openness about challenges, uncertainties, and emotions. This trust lays the groundwork for a safe space that supports meaningful dialogue and collaboration. Such an environment is crucial for developing deep connections that enhance team cohesion.

Empathy

Some might take the advice of salespeople who can Influence in conscious leadership. This style isn't characterized by the ability to exert power but the capacity to drive action through empathy and respect. Effective leaders value relationships and will work towards nurturing them through consistently relating genuinely and showing mutual respect. These relationships are the very framework on which influence can gently but effectively mold organizational goals and visions.

Leading through change

Another constant in business is change, and leaders must be adept at guiding their teams through it. Conscious leaders excel by staying true to their core values and purpose, which serve as their compass during turbulent times.

They communicate transparently, manage expectations realistically, and inspire confidence, making the journey of change less daunting for everyone involved

Synthesizing diverse leadership approaches

Conscious leadership is based on the understanding that there are multiple ways to lead. It involves integrating various leadership paradigms, including transformational, innovative, empathetic, and participative styles, to forge a leadership approach that is both flexible and responsive.

If you are interested in reading different approaches on conscious leadership I advise you to read the following books:

1. START WITH WHY / Simon sinek
2. REBELDES Y RESPETUOSOS / Juan Pablo Velasquez
3. THINK AGAIN / Adam Grant
4. DARE TO LEAD / Brené Brown
5. LEADERS EAT LAST / Simon sinek