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The Soul of leadership. The Being and Doing of Leadership From One’s Soul. “ Leaders are the symbolic soul of the groups they lead and … great leaders respond from the higher levels of spirit.” Deepak Chopra, “The Soul of Leadership”. Being one who leads from the soul means….
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The Soul of leadership The Being and Doing of Leadership From One’s Soul
“Leaders are the symbolic soul of the groups they lead and … great leaders respond from the higher levels of spirit.” Deepak Chopra, “The Soul of Leadership”
Being one who leads from the soul means… • understanding leadership to be a spiritual endeavor. • understanding leadership to be a calling. • possessing a keen sense of self-awareness – know thyself. • being aware of one’s shadow self. • being open to surprises.
The work of one who leads from the soul involves… • acting in a manner that is authentic and congruent with the self. • functioning more as a visionary than manager. • acting with the courage of one’s convictions. • engaging others collaboratively rather than hierarchically. • encouraging creativity.
The work of one who leads from the soul involves… • valuing relationships as much as tasks and outcomes. • allowing time for reflection. • focusing on the personal development of others. • building upon people’s strengths rather than correcting their mistakes. • working for a lasting commitment rather than a momentary compliance.
The work of one who leads from the soul involves… • highlighting the interconnectedness of life. • creating a community built upon trust, forgiveness, respect, creativity, mutuality, gratitude, and celebration. • caring for the soul of others. • caring for one’s own soul.
As I talked with leaders across the country, I found a longing for meaning and comfort. These jobs of ours as educational leaders are difficult and draining. They sap our physical and moral energy. We have to find ways of replenishing the supply. The demands of leadership leave us with two choices: ‘change our careers or connect to the power we share with others and the divine.’ Robert W. Cole and Paul D. Houston
Resources • Care for the Soul, Thomas Moore • “OIC Soul-Leadership,” the OIC Group • “Practicing Soul Leadership,” Janet Hagberg • Spirituality in Educational Leadership, edited by Paul D. Houston, Alan M. Blankstein, Robert W. Cole • “Spirituality in Management Education: A Guide to Resources,” Judith Neal