I’ve worked as a systems manager for over a decade, connecting with senior leaders in Education, local Government and the private sector. During this time, I’ve had the opportunity to observe leadership in action and have witnessed a broad spectrum of human behaviours. I expect you have as many stories as I do of questionable behaviour from those in leadership roles.
My perception on leadership has been challenged over the past year. Two events, in particular, have had a significant impact.
- I found myself in a leadership position and began asking what kind of leader I wanted to be.
- I attended The Aspire Series Women’s Leadership Summit and observed a different kind of leadership in action.
What I witnessed at the Summit was heart-led intuitive leadership. Watching the non- judgemental way in which the schedule was tweaked, experiencing the result of respectful collaboration, the authenticity of presenters and the resultant synchronicity was an absolute pleasure. The genuine respect for the land and indigenous inhabitants was another meaningful aspect which contributed to a unique event. Please understand, I don’t mean reading a script acknowledging indigenous persons, I mean making space for local people, culture and traditions in a fun, educational and meaningful way.
- Did everything run strictly according to schedule? No. (let’s be honest, when is plan A ever executed perfectly?)
- Was everything presented that was promised? Yes.
- Did each session feel complete? Yes
- Was it perfect? Yes
- Was it Transformational? Yes!
The experience was enhanced because of, not despite the leadership styles I witnessed. I place great value in giving respect to everyone present; holding safe and respectful space; creating space for risks, having faith in your collaboration partners (or team) and embracing genuine intentions. I saw all of this and more at the Summit and it was inspiring.
Equally as exciting for me, I’m seeing a shift in the corporate sector. I’m privileged to work for a B Corp certified organisation who cares about the wellbeing and development of team members. There’s so much I could write about, so I’ll pick what I’m currently experiencing as the most impactful. Mistakes are genuinely viewed as learning experiences. Adopting the mindset of “oh goody, a mistake! What can we learn from this to continuously improve?” establishes the perfect foundation for a transparent debrief and genuine development. It removes the feeling of needing to cover up mistakes or behave defensively and allows for a focus on the solution, not the problem.
It’s empowering to play in spaces where I don’t have to leave a piece of me behind. I love bringing my entire authentic self to work everyday and watching everything unfold in exactly the way it was supposed to, even if this isn’t obvious at first.
Namaste
