Using your head AND heart to help others is what compassionate leadership is built on, as noted in a recent online article in Industry Leaders Magazine (READ IT HERE). We can all no doubt recall leaders throughout our journey who are clearly compassionate leaders, and equally so there will be plenty of memories of those who were the anthesis of compassion. The article notes that “everyone can learn to be a good leader and infuse their leadership style with compassion.”
The ’how-to’ is really not that difficult and is evident when “people in power create work conditions where people feel supported, seen, and have fulfilling work lives.” By understanding both their own jobs, and the people they work with, leaders can “take the necessary steps to solve the problem, while working out a long-term solution.” It is true that it can take a bit more time and effort being a compassionate leader, especially in the early days of adjusting, but the benefits far outweigh these.
As noted in the article, there are a number of potential benefits to compassionate leadership. Compassion inspires loyalty and increased productivity. Burnout is reduced amongst workers who show more compassion. And the point is made that kindness increases self-esteem and protects you from chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and cancer. Too many leaders also “assume that harsh criticism will motivate employees to perform better, yet such practices result in less likelihood of being promoted.” Finally, the article quotes research that found “those who are kinder and more generous tend to have higher incomes compared to selfish people.”
With such clear benefits, its intriguing there are not more compassionate leaders “promoting and delivering compassionate cultures at work.” Perhaps now is your time to step up.