Catalyzing Relational Creativity for Transformative Leadership

This piece appears in Business Coaching special issue on Leadership, Spring 2022.

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Recently, an organizational leader expressed to us a frustration we’ve been hearing a lot lately: “These days, I can’t seem to get it right. On the one hand, everyone is tired and overwhelmed, so they want me to make all the decisions. But on the other hand, these same people rebel against any decision that doesn’t include them in the process.”

This is a tension we’re seeing many leaders grappling with. It reflects a larger pattern playing out in North American society (although not limited to it). We see many leaders tired and worn out, fatigued from the burden of their position, holding it all together, with the pressure to have the “right” answers. And it’s no wonder. The uncertainty, chaos, and contradictions of current times continue to amplify what futurist Zia Sardar calls postnormal times, a global phenomenon. Inevitably some look to finding certainty in a traditional, strong leader, often a father figure who can fix what ails us (or make it great again). Leaders of organizations have to navigate the pandemic, political leaders to address economic instability, climate change, and historical redress, and business leaders to ensure profitability as well as positive social and environmental impacts.

Most leaders are tired, the burden untenable. At the same time, we are seeing essential and important demands for inclusion, equity and participation, and a clear message that “if it’s about us, don’t do it without us.” These competing demands can be difficult and exhausting to untangle for the responsive and caring leaders we work with and coach.… READ MORE.