The Future is Calling for Inspiring Leaders: Leading with Integrity, Humor, and Heart

Today and in the future, the qualities we seek in our leaders are changing. Gone are the days when traditional leadership approaches or hierarchical authority is considered inspiring. We crave leaders who resonate with us on a human level, who embody integrity, humor, relatability, and a genuine commitment to service. These are the leaders who inspire us, who we follow not just because we have to, but because we are inspired to.

The Qualities of Inspiring Leaders

Integrity

Integrity is the cornerstone of any meaningful leadership. Integrity is another word for 'integrated' which means a leader is both visionary AND grounded or both compassionate AND can hold others accountable.

Integrity is doing the right thing, and being aligned with human values even when no one is watching. Leaders who lead with integrity build trust and create an environment where openness and honesty are valued. Regardless of our politics we can look to examples such as Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States, who demonstrates integrity. Throughout her career, she has consistently stood up for justice and equality, advocating for the marginalized and underrepresented. Her steadfast commitment to her principles, even in the face of adversity, has inspired many to believe in a better, fairer future.

Humor

Humor (self effacing is best) is an often underrated quality in leadership, and it can be incredibly powerful. Humor connects us to others and humanizes us as leaders, makes us more approachable, and can diffuse tension in stressful situations. Ryan Reynolds, the Hollywood actor and entrepreneur, is great at using humor to connect with people. Whether he’s interacting with fans on social media , doing a movie promotion, or promoting his business ventures, Reynolds’ self effacing wit and charm make him relatable and likeable. His ability to not take himself too seriously, while still maintaining professionalism, is a refreshing example of modern leadership.

Relatability

Inspiring leaders are those who can relate to the people they lead. They understand their team’s struggles, aspirations, and fears because they have experienced similar things themselves. The recently named VP for Kamala Harris, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is a leader who exemplifies relatability. His background as a high school teacher and football coach before entering politics gives him a unique perspective on the challenges faced by everyday citizens. Walz’s down-to-earth demeanor and genuine concern for his constituents’ well-being have earned him widespread respect and admiration.

Leading with Heart and Service

Ultimately, the most inspiring leaders are those who lead with heart and a commitment to service. They prioritize the needs of others above their own and strive to make a positive impact in their communities. These leaders understand that their role is not just about achieving individual or organizational goals but about uplifting those they serve. Leaders who lead with heart have a keen desire to make a difference in the lives of those they lead.

Four Steps to Becoming a More Inspiring Leader

Cultivate Self-Awareness and Authenticity

To lead with integrity and relatability, you must first understand yourself. When we take the time to reflect on our values, strengths, and areas for growth we ensure we are committed to growth. When we are honest about our vulnerabilities and share them with our teams it increases connection and human to human intimacy. Authenticity breeds trust and shows that you are a real person, not just someone enacting power through a role. According to research from Harvard Business Review, self-awareness is critical for effective leadership as it helps leaders understand how their actions impact others and creates a culture of openness and honesty.

The future is calling for leaders who are not just competent, strategic or visionary but also inspiring. By cultivating qualities such as integrity, humor, relatability, and a commitment to service, we can become the leaders our world needs. These qualities resonate with people on a human level, fostering trust, loyalty, and a shared sense of purpose. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, let us strive to lead with heart and make a positive impact in the lives of those we serve.

On a personal level I have found my ability to lead with more inspiring energy has increased as I openly share and connect my challenges . It allows me to relate to people with humanity and through shared experience that connects to their challenges it builds more meaning and connection. The result has been increased trust and intimacy between myself and those I work with and has greatly enhanced the results for my clients in my coaching/consulting work.

Use Humor to Build Connections

Humor can be a powerful tool for building connections and fostering a positive work environment. Used appropriately (self effacing is great) it can lighten the mood, show your human side, and connect with our teams on a personal level. It's important that our humor is inclusive and respectful, as inappropriate jokes can alienate and harm relationships. A study published in the Journal of Business and Psychology found that leaders who use humor effectively can improve team morale and performance.

As leaders we can get bogged won with the seriousness of what we are dealing with. It's true that we all have very real and challenging situations to deal with. Research has shown that having levity and and a sense of humor not only benefits our own personal health but it breathes energy and alleviates stress for our teams. Recently I got certified as a laughter yoga instructor and I now laugh daily and by teaching classes has also increased my ability to bring more humor to the seriousness of my life and being a leader.

Demonstrate Empathy and Relatability

Empathy is about understanding and sharing the feelings of others. When we show genuine interest in our team members’ lives, listen to their concerns, and be supportive during difficult times it increases connection. Relatability comes from sharing your own experiences and showing that you understand their struggles. Empathy in leadership has been linked to increased job satisfaction, productivity, and loyalty, as noted by research from the Center for Creative Leadership.

When I wrote my book, Super.Crucial.Human in 2020 I shared very real challenges that I had growing up that shaped my ability to be more intuitive and present with people which has helped me develop my 'human' skills. Empathy is not sympathy it is the ability to put ourselves in someone else's shoes even if we can't imagine the situation for ourselves.

Often leaders will mistake empathy for letting people get away with stuff when really empathy is the ability to connect, understand and communicate human to human.

Lead with a Service Mindset

When we prioritize the well-being and development of your team members we are practicing servant leadership. When we encourage their growth, support their goals, and create an environment where they feel valued and empowered we increase loyalty and commitment. When we lead with a service mindset it means putting the needs of others before our own and striving to make a positive and meaningful impact. Service mindset not only inspires loyalty and respect but also fosters a culture of collaboration and mutual support. The concept of servant leadership, as described by Robert K. Greenleaf, emphasizes the importance of serving others as the key to effective leadership.

When I was twenty three years old and first called to be a leader my 'why' was to help make a difference in people's lives. I wanted to learn, grow, share and help others succeed. To this day that is what keeps me energized and inspired to do what I do.

Why are we craving leaders with these qualities? Because we are living in a time where technology is rapidly progressing and creating increasing uncertainty and fear. Leaders who demonstrate humanity, genuine care and a desire to make the world a better place are the answer to the future that is calling.