The Context and Purpose
Being a leader is far from easy; actions and behaviours of leaders are under close observation by their followers as well as their opponents.
Experience shows that leaders seldom lose their followers or their position because of low performance but more often by acting against organisational or societal values (for example, integrity).
A responsible leader is characterised by adherence to humanistic values and also considering these values while taking decisions and actions.
Operating in a volatile environment, with many unknowns, uncertainties and high pressure, the leadership position involves:
- responsibility for staff;
- consideration for the success as well as reputation of the organisation;
- delivery of high-quality outcomes;
- loyalty to multiple clients; and
- contribution to society's welfare.
This leads to value conflicts and dilemmas often faced by leaders.
A decisive factor enabling leaders to be successful in dealing with dilemmas and wicked problems is their ability to devote time for introspection, reflection and thereby consolidate their values-base. Such consolidated value-base is the rudder defining their path while traveling through unknown territory.
A responsible leader is characterised by adherence to humanistic values and also considering these values while taking decisions and actions.
Values are socio-cultural constructs deeply rooted in one’s personality. As values are developed early in childhood, individuals are often not clear about the implicit and tacit dimensions of their espoused values.
Consciousness about value dilemma and mastering the art of dealing with such dilemma enables a leader to act with integrity as well as with confidence in contexts uncertainty. In general, everybody deals with value conflicts and attempts to align their actions and behaviour with their espoused values.
We hope you probe into yourself to do the same. If there is a need – you can write to us for a lovely workshop on the same.
