Leading with Heart: The Essence of Authentic Leadership

“Leadership is not about love — it is love. It’s loving your mission, it’s loving your people, it’s loving your customers, and it’s loving yourself enough to get out of the way so that other people can shine.”

While February is decorated with hearts and associated with the energy of love, it’s an excellent time to reflect on the concept of Leading with Heart. Empowered leadership stems from the heart.  While logic and emotion both play essential roles, true empowerment comes from grounded decisions in the timeless principles of integrity, accountability,  genuine care…LOVE. 

In today's dynamic landscape, logic often takes center stage in leadership discussions. It's crucial to make rational, data-driven decisions. However, effective leadership goes beyond just logic. Emotions are another vital aspect of the leadership equation, influencing how we connect with others and inspire them to action.

One of my favorite quotes about love and leadership comes from Maya Angelou: "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." This quote beautifully illustrates the impact of leading with heart. It emphasizes the importance of creating an environment where individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered.

As we navigate the complexities of leadership, let’s remember to balance logic, emotion, and the guiding principles of the heart. Let’s prioritize integrity, authenticity, and genuine care in our daily actions. By doing so, we not only become more effective leaders but also create a culture of trust and collaboration.

“True leadership is grounded in integrity, guided by authenticity, and fueled by compassion." - Unknown

Let's lead with heart and pave the way for lasting success and fulfillment in leadership and beyond.

Love and Respect,

Jill