What does the word “leadership” mean to you?

What does the word “leadership” mean to you? As an executive coach, I have the privilege of working with many different leaders who are open to change. By perceiving new ways of thinking and acting, trying new things, looking at their emotions, holding themselves accountable and making peace with the past, coaching clients benefit from making transformative shifts in themselves as professionals and as humans.

The models of leadership have also been changing over the last several decades as we have shifted from an autocratic style to a more collaborative style of leadership. Things like emotional intelligence, vulnerability, empathy, building trust and social intelligence are just some of the important components that are considered when talking about leadership today.

#WiseWords

“Leadership is not a title. Leadership is not a position. But rather, leadership is a mindset. Leadership is a way of being.”

Michelle L. Buck

Worth the Share

What does it mean to be vulnerable as a leader? Back in the day, managers where supposed to have all the answers and keep any personal struggles to themselves. We just powered through. 

Thankfully, that model is going the way of the dodo bird due to the understanding that being vulnerable as a leader has a powerful upside. When a leader is vulnerable, deep connections are made with the team, trust is built up and teams are more creative and innovative. “Being vulnerable is not a weakness” according to Bhavik Shah, the author of this article from Thrive Global.

And Finally...

Back in 1995, Daniel Goleman wrote the book Emotional Intelligence: Why it can matter more than IQ. This book and subsequent volumes of additional research has made a tremendous impact on leadership as we manage and understand our own emotions and those emotions of our team. If you are curious to learn more, read the book which is now in its 10th edition or watch Goleman’s various videos. A fun one I really like is from OnePercentBetter, check out this link.  

 

Have a good week,

Mary Jo

To learn more about my 1:1 executive, communication or business growth coaching, custom virtual workshops, the Career Transition program or just to connect, you can reach me at info@mjrcac.com