We are surrounded by fear-based motivation. Marketers create a fear of missing out. Politicians promise disaster if they don’t win. Many organizational leaders use this approach, too. But fear is not our only motivator. To promote flourishing, leaders need to create psychological safety, encourage creative exploration, and respond with an attitude that treats failure as a learning opportunity.
The journey of life and leadership is a never-ending series of cycles, requiring different optimal action depending on the circumstances. There are two constants central to the work of every compassionate leader: self-compassion and the recognition of our shared common humanity. These two provide a powerful foundation for compassionate leaders to act, and guide their choice of the approach to use.
