Contradictions of Leading Mindfully
Nothing is perfectly black or white in leadership ☯
So to get results? Show empathy? Lead with purpose? Have conviction?
We must embrace Contradictions
Why?
Because leading mindfully means:
⚪️ BEING
a more consciously present and compassionate human.
YES…but also
⚫️ DOING
what’s needed to support teams and reach goals.
And this isn’t easy! Because it requires leaders to finely balance
Ideal outcomes ⚖️ with values alignment
Sharp strategy ⚖️ with open mindedness
Passion & drive ⚖️ with wise compassion
Which means they must embrace the…
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 of Leading Mindfully ☯
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Contradictions of Leading Mindfully ☯
-1-
Goal driven (Motivates)
A focus on setting specific, measurable & timely outcomes, inspires this leader.
🆚
Intentional (Show’s up)
An emphasis on how we ‘show up’ in a values aligned way, inspires this leader.
-2-
Strives hard (Persists)
Pushes with great determination toward goals. Always raises the bar for others.
🆚
Non-Strives (Responds)
Puts ego, wins and accolades aside, to make space for life ‘now’. For others too.
-3-
Fails Fast (Experiments)
Rapidly tests and experiments to learn from failure. To incrementally improve.
🆚
Fails Mindfully (Accepts)
Consciously accepts failures without self-criticism. To embrace growth.
-4-
The Expert (Educates)
Always sharing knowledge, wisdom and advice. The one to come to for answers.
🆚
The Beginner (Wonders)
Always asks questions. Sees challenges, new or old, with open and curious eyes.
But remove the opposition? And we
1) Set values aligned goals with mindful intention.
2) Work hard toward outcomes, accepting what unfolds.
3) Fail fast, without fuelling self-criticism.
4) Enrich expertise by openly inviting fresh perspective.
Knowing nothing is just black or white.
+
Seeing how they may go together.
Which contradiction resonates for you?
Derek
