Authentic leadership: Less opinion, better results

In today’s fast-paced and opinion-driven world, it’s easy to fall into the trap of forming strong opinions on various matters. We often associate these opinions with our sense of self-worth and ego and unknowingly drift further away from our true selves. However, there is a crucial distinction between having a point of view and clinging to unwavering opinions. Embracing this difference can lead to profound personal growth and more effective leadership.

Your soul, the essence of who you are, has no opinion. It remains untainted by biases and attachments to any specific viewpoint. Your soul is open, compassionate, and receptive to the world around you. On the other hand, it is your ego that thrives on maintaining a sense of self-importance, and this is often manifested through strongly held opinions.

The stronger your opinion, the stronger your ego becomes. When you are convinced that your perspective is the only correct one, you close yourself off to alternative ideas and possibilities. In doing so, you distance yourself from your true nature and hinder personal growth and understanding.

As a leader, being overly opinionated can be detrimental to both your growth and the development of your team. Your role as a leader is not to impose your opinions on others but rather to encourage open dialogue, collaboration, and creativity.

When you let go of the need to be right, you create an environment where your team members feel valued, heard, and motivated to contribute their unique perspectives.

An ego-driven leader tends to stifle the potential of others due to their own need for validation. They may dismiss innovative ideas that challenge their opinions, leading to missed opportunities and stifled growth within the organisation. On the other hand, an authentic leader who remains receptive to different viewpoints empowers their team members to bring their best selves to the table, fostering a culture of innovation and progress.

Detaching from strong opinions doesn’t mean relinquishing your values or principles. It’s about adopting a more humble and open-minded approach to leadership. Recognise that your knowledge and understanding are not absolute, and there’s always room for growth and improvement.

In the absence of rigid opinions, curiosity and a willingness to learn flourish. Embrace the power of asking questions, seeking diverse perspectives, and actively listening to others. This not only enriches your knowledge but also builds trust and rapport within your team.

Moreover, embracing a more open-minded approach will allow you to adapt to changing circumstances and make better decisions. In a world that constantly evolves, being agile and adaptable is crucial for staying relevant and successful.

True leadership lies in serving others rather than proving oneself right. It involves empowering others to shine and contributing to the growth of the collective. By setting aside your ego-driven opinions, you create a space for your team to thrive, bringing out their full potential and fostering a supportive and productive work environment.

In conclusion, detaching from strong opinions and embracing an open-minded approach is essential for personal growth and effective leadership. Your soul remains pure, free from opinions, and by aligning yourself with its wisdom, you can cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself and others. As a leader, you have the power to inspire and uplift those around you by creating an environment where diverse viewpoints are encouraged, and collaboration is cherished. In doing so, you will achieve much more and gain much more from your people, all while fostering a culture of growth and success.