I spoke to Katrijn van Oudheusden in episode 26 of The Knowing Self Knowing Others Podcast and learned so much! Selfless leadership is a concept that challenges the traditional idea of leadership and encourages a deeper understanding of oneself and others.
Selfless leadership requires a shift from ego-driven ambitions to a more selfless mindset. Embrace the understanding that we are more than just a separate self, but connected to a larger whole. This shift leads to reduced self-interest and a natural prioritisation of others.
Developing a deep self-awareness is essential for selfless leadership. Understand your self – with a little S (personality traits, beliefs) and Self – with a capital S (universal consciousness). By recognising these aspects of yourself, you can better lead and understand others.
Challenge the belief that you have complete control over every aspect of your life. Embracing uncertainty and surrendering to the natural flow of situations allows for more effective leadership. Understand that leadership is about taking the lead, regardless of your position or role.
Question the beliefs you hold about yourself and recognise that they do not define your true identity. Beliefs are subject to change and are not facts. By exploring your true nature beyond these beliefs, you can tap into your authentic leadership potential.
Shift the focus from individual leaders to the concept of leadership itself. Understand that anyone can take the lead and be a leader at any moment. Leadership is about following your natural talents and skills and being in tune with emerging situations.
Selfless leadership involves following the natural flow of situations and aligning your actions with what emerges. By being attuned to the needs of the moment and utilising your skills effectively, you can navigate challenges and lead with purpose and authenticity.
Incorporate self-observation and direct experiential inquiry into your leadership practice – a great exercise for developing self-awareness. Take time to observe your thoughts and question where they originate from. This practice allows you to see how the separate self is constructed and how limitations are created in the mind.
Use meditation and inquiry techniques to deepen your self-awareness and understanding. These practices can help you cultivate a sense of interconnectedness and tap into your inner wisdom.
Selfless leadership naturally leads to a compassionate approach to leadership. By prioritising the interests of others and understanding their perspectives, you can foster a culture of empathy, trust, and collaboration within your team or organisation.
By embracing selfless leadership, you can level up your leadership skills and create a positive impact in your personal and professional life. The key takeaways from Katrijn Van Outhoston’s book provide valuable insights for becoming a more effective, self-aware, and compassionate leader. Embrace the interconnectedness of all things and lead with a focus on serving others to unlock your full leadership potential. Buy the book here…..