Leadership is hard. To be effective, it often requires pushing agendas, giving tough feedback, making hard decisions that disappoint people, and, in some cases, laying people off. Showing compassion in leadership can’t come at the expense of wisdom and effectiveness. You need both.
Rasmus Hougaard, Jacqueline Carter, & Nick Hobson
Takeaways of Note:
To Cultivate Wise Compassion
- Have more self-compassion… If you’re overloaded and out of balance, it’s impossible to help others find their balance
- Check your intention… ask yourself, How can I best be of benefit to this person or team?
- Adopt a daily compassion practice… Compassion is a trainable skill
If your compassion is strong and would like to increase wisdom
- Practice candid transparency… concealing tough criticism is not kind – it is misleading. Being clear is kind. Be direct and transparent
- One daily direct interaction… will help you to move out of your comfort zone and better develop your leadership wisdom
- Adopt a daily mindfulness training… (WRUG & Co note: this essentially is being intentionally aware of the present moment – our thoughts, emotions, & surroundings. WRUG & Co’s founder prioritizes this daily through dependent prayer that personally acknowledges & seeks the presence & guidance of God)
Bonus Nugget:
“Compassion is the quality of having positive intentions and real concern for others. Compassion in leadership creates stronger connections between people. It improves collaboration, raises levels of trust, and enhances loyalty. In addition, studies find that compassionate leaders are perceived as stronger and more competent.”