Do you have the makings of a great leader? Being a leader is more than just possessing the title, it is a practice. Our society is so focused on titles and power that we forget what conscious leadership is all about.
We often measure the success of a leader by their financial wins. Because of this, we overlook the cost that came with these achievements on their relationships, well-being, and the health of the planet.
The world needs a new brand of leaders – CONSCIOUS LEADERS. These are people who see the bigger picture. A leader who effectively works across lines of difference. Leaders whose commitment is not solely focused on financial gain but on doing the right things.
Every leader has an operating system, a hallmark or behavior which makes them a person of influence. Even without a title, a conscious leader can inspire others and can exert power from wherever they stand. What do they look like? Is this you? Find out by asking yourself these simple questions.
How do I develop my skills?
Curiosity is one trait that a strong leader has. And in the quest to find answers, you need to have the humility to accept that there are things that you don’t know in order to make space for more learning. A strong leader is a curious learner and this requires you to know WHO you want to learn from. Your teacher could be someone living, dead, old, young, successful, or not. People that you find inspiration from may change from time to time, depending on what questions you need to be answered, who awakens your potential, and who influences you to be your best self.
What are the things that I feel strongly about that I can commit to?
Conscious leaders have that one thing that they feel strongly about that they commit to wholeheartedly. All strong leaders have dedicated themselves to bringing change to the system. A commitment to have a positive impact on issues that touches them deeply. Do you want to champion issues affecting people, the planet, or the economy? We all need to try to make a difference in this world and make a mark while we are here. Conscious Leaders have a broader goal in mind and hold themselves accountable for it.
How do I get out of my comfort zone?
You don’t grow if you stay where you’re comfortable. Growth requires stretching, much like risk-taking. It is like a muscle – the more you exercise it, the stronger it gets. Immerse yourself in activities that you are not good at. This puts you in a place of discomfort and challenges you to find your way through it and builds your capacity for courage. Strong leaders say and do the hard things – not because this is what most people do, but because it is right. Conscious Leaders are not fearless. They have developed such an intimate relationship with their fears that they can face them, tap into their courage and do what needs to be done.
Am I putting in the work?
Practice makes perfect. Mastery of a task takes much effort and time. You should know that there are no shortcuts to achieving perfection. As a conscious leader, you have to understand that your position of influence demands that you do much more than check some boxes.
So, are you committed to the practice of leadership? Do you want to belong to a group of people who value lifelong learning? Those who have their lives aligned with their values and convictions? And those who have the courage to do hard things? This is what a conscious leader is, one who commits to the practice and not one who just bears the title.