The Psychology Behind Effective Leadership

I hope this email finds you well, amidst strength and resilience, as we navigate the ever changing tide of life. In times of crisis, we often turn to visionary leaders, captivated by their bold ideas and inspiring direction. Yet, there exists a deeper, more nuanced facet of leadership that is often overlooked: holding.

Let us challenge the conventional wisdom that leadership is solely about visionary direction. Instead, let us recognize that effective leadership entails the profound ability to provide holding—a steadfast presence that offers reassurance, interprets complex situations, and fosters a sense of unity and purpose among teams.

Holding is a crucial element of leadership, particularly in times of crisis. Just as parents provide a nurturing environment for children to grow and thrive, leaders must offer a similar form of holding to their teams, creating a space for processing distress and uncertainty.

There is also a clear distinction between interpersonal holding and institutional holding. While institutional holding involves creating policies and structures that support employees and employee engagement (which is oh SO important being the cornerstone of organizational health), interpersonal holding focuses on the leader's ability to empathize, listen, and support individuals on a personal level.

It should also be noted that holding is not solely the responsibility of leaders; colleagues and peers also play a vital role in providing support and fostering resilience during challenging times.

As we navigate through crises and look towards the future, it's essential to recognize the profound impact of holding in leadership. While visions may inspire, it is the ability to hold—both institutionally and interpersonally—that truly sets leaders apart and enables teams to thrive in the face of adversity.

In the end, it's not just about the grand vision, but the genuine care and support that leaders provide to their teams that make a lasting impact.

With unwavering faith in your capabilities, we encourage you to embrace the mantle of holding in your leadership journey.

You’ve got this!

Outsight

Optimizing Your Reality