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Me, a Resonant Leader?

 

Me, a Resonant Leader?

Part of the human experience is to learn about history. In order to better understanding where we are going, we should first learn how we got to where we are today. In this learning we find ourselves making assumptions on everything. We make assumptions that it may, or may not rain, that we have enough gas in our cars to get to work, and that people will behave in certain ways. The behavior I’m talking about is the assumption by many of what makes a great leader. Some might believe a great leader should operate in a traditional top-down approach in which they make all the decisions, and rule with authority to get the job done. But great leaders aren’t simply found in that kind of environment. Instead, great leaders can be quiet, compassionate, and inspiring, all while still getting the job done. “Research in the areas of psychology, neuroscience, management, and organizational behavior has helped us draw several conclusions about what people can do to enhance their capacity for great leadership” (Boyatzis, et al, 2008). In one case where I fell short in using my leadership was being less than compassionate with a coworker after they had a death in their family. I was unaware of the loss and made a fool of myself when I challenged them about not being productive at work. This again points to why you shouldn’t judge people, because you don’t know what they have going on in their personal lives. It was an error in judgement, I try my best to not make that mistake anymore. I should have not been so aggressive in my approach, and instead used kindness in that situation.

Now follow me through an exercise to garner information of my resonant leadership.

Resonant Leader Questionnaire

Am I inspirational? How do I inspire people?

·       I use stories from my experiences in situations that bring perspective, empathy, and joy to others.

Do I create an overall positive emotional tone that is characterized by hope? How?

·       By using positivity in my behavior, in my voice, and through kindness I believe I inspire hope in others.

Am I in touch with others? Do I really know what is in others’ hearts and on their minds? How do I show this?

·       I stay in touch with people by connecting not through work topics, but through memories. I know what is happening in others’ lives because I’m close with them.

Do I regularly experience and demonstrate compassion? How?

·       When something tragic, or negative happens, I offer my shoulder to cry on. I actively listen to others in the hope they are able to relieve themselves of what is bothering them.

Am I authentic and in tune with myself, others, and the environment? How can people see this in me?

·       The easiest way for others to see I am in touch with myself, and the environment around me is I wear a smile on my face every day.

What This Says About Me

What surprises me about what I’ve learned through this exercise is that I had been using traits of resonant leadership without knowing it! I understand that its still early in my journey to fully understand resonant leadership, but I feel like I have enough knowledge to believe I’m on the right path. I believe in my approach to establish positive relationships with those around me, while reflecting often about my behavior. Getting up on the balcony to see how my behavior, actions, and attitude all mix together properly is important so that I can understand where and when more compassion, and hope are needed. I’m getting there, but still have a lot more to learn.

References

McKee, A., Boyatzis, R. & Johnston, F. (2008). Becoming a resonant leader. Boston, MA: Harvard Business School Press.

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