“In our work culture, and society in general, the image or metaphor of the heart is often associated with yielding, kindness — or perhaps weakness. Yet, the heart is also strong and powerful, as well as the driving force of life.
Susan Steinbrecher
When we lead with love, our actions and decisions are guided from a place of deep human connection. We lead from a place of good intent and purity of purpose.
Leading with love is not soft, nor is it fluffy. It can be as strong as titanium, yet come from a place of wanting the very best for the other person. It raises others to become a better version of themselves.
As a past Principal, I have had to make some very tough decisions, but when I did so from a place of aroha with the mantra “What’s in the best interests of the students?”, everything flowed. Alternatively, when I found myself trying to please everyone, or I looked at problems with a scarcity mindset, or I found-fault, things became tricky.
When we lead from a place of love, we make conscious choices as to how we show-up each and every moment. It is through conscious choice that we can transform not only ourselves, but those around us and our entire work culture. The diagram below shows the shift we are able to make in our leadership through conscious choice.
As you go forward this week, consider
What would love do?
