7 Habits of Humanistic Leaders
Human-centred leaders prioritise people and culture.
They understand that prioritising the physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual needs of their employees and allowing space for them to bring their whole selves to work, as well as creating a culture of connection and trust, leads to higher engagement, better performance, and ultimately more profits.
“The only bond worth anything between human beings is their humanness.”
- Jesse Owens
I’ve come up with a list of 7 habits of human-centred leadership that you too can practice to succeed on a personal, team, and company level.
They take radical self-responsibility
The best leaders understand that the buck stops with them. They are consciously accountable for their words and actions, and they take responsibility when things go wrong. Self-responsible leaders don’t deflect or spread blame, they own the problem and get to the task of fixing it.
2. They cultivate compassion and empathy
Compassionate and empathetic leaders recognise that every team member is a significant individual but also an essential part of the success of the entire organisation. They are self-aware and self-compassionate, and they have a genuine interest in their employees' lives, wellbeing, feelings, and challenges.
3. They build their confidence and self-esteem
Leaders with high self-esteem and confidence have no problem delegating, empowering, trusting, and encouraging their employees to be the best they can be.
4. They are humble
Humble leaders treat everyone, regardless of title, with care and respect. They have the confidence to recognise their own weaknesses and don’t allow their ego minds to run riot.
5. They master their thoughts, emotions, and energy
Great leaders are able to control their emotions and energy and the responses to situations and other people, understanding the impact this has on those around them. They are able to remain calm and focused when faced with challenging and dynamic situations. They understand the principle that their energy speaks before they do.
6. They are ethical
Ethical leaders are the demonstration of their principles and values. They lead with integrity, honesty, trust, fairness, and transparency.
7. They do the work to be inclusive, diverse, and equitable
Inclusive leaders do not subscribe to performative DEI actions, instead, they do the work of uncovering their own subconscious biases in an effort to be more inclusive, diverse, and equitable.