Things feel overwhelming right now in ways that they haven’t felt in a very long time. This level of disruption makes it easy to feel that change is beyond our control or power. Compassionate leaders know there ARE things that we can do to bring change forward. Consider these three ideas to help settle yourself into a place of empowerment, and focus yourself for change.
Work has always been serious. On top of this, COVID-19 has disrupted most of our work norms, and we are finally facing a global reckoning after centuries of systemic racism. Is it okay to have fun, too? YES! Playfulness, fun, spontaneity, and silliness are all attributes that contribute to organizational success, and will help us to thrive in the face of the very serious challenges of the world.
Now that much of the world is moving toward reopening after the COVID lockdown, it’s time to explore the many ways our lives and organizations will change in the post-pandemic society. In our recent survey, “Compassionate Leadership Amid the Chaos,” we asked participants “What do you believe could come out of this crisis?”
When it comes to layoffs, the research is clear: avoid them when you can. Layoffs can have a highly detrimental impact by eroding trust, undermining shared values, and increasing negative behaviors. Yet there are times, like the current crisis, when layoffs may be an unavoidable reality for your organization. How can you lead compassionately while carrying out such a painful agenda?
In our recent survey on “Compassionate Leadership Amid the Chaos,” we asked respondents which emotions they have been experiencing during the crisis. The responses of leaders and team members diverged substantially, and leaders can learn and take action based on these differences. We recommend the steps to take in order to build more effective teams.
In our conversations with many colleagues around the globe since the shelter-in-place rules went into effect a few short weeks ago, we’ve noticed how leaders are translating their compassionate leadership style to the virtual environment. Along with our own experiences teaching, facilitating, and convening on Zoom since its debut, we share these observations and ideas for weaving more compassion into your new regime of leading by remote connection.
