How having compassion makes you a better leader.

No one is perfect however, I love the example that the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Arden shows with her leadership style. Her example of leading with empathy and compassion ranks high on the list of what makes her a good leader in my view.

Many of us were brought up to think that to be strong we must not show vulnerability and we have to put our foot down in order to be respected as leaders. For women, culturally, it may have been harder to gain respect and seeming to be soft might have even made this harder. If you are facing this dilemma, my question to you is how you are being currently, is that working out for you (or getting you the results that you want). If yes then you are probably good to go! If not here are some more quesions and ideas.

– How can you be strong while being vulnerable?
– How can you be firm without having to be feared?

Current research shows that vulnerability is a strength and you can be firm and respected without being feared. It is not necessarily a one or the other thing. Just look at leaders like Jacinda Arden, like Oprah, like Obama.

Showing compassion in leadership means the following:

1. You are more understanding and better able to respond to situations without reacting harshly.
2. You are more approachable and therefore open and honest two-way communication will be encouraged.
3. You will be able to give the people you lead and even yourself the room to learn from mistakes and grow.

This to me is good leadership … what’s your take on this?