Reflection Point – Leading with purpose

For those of you who have undertaken the Leadership Circle profile, you’ll be familiar with the creative and reactive leadership styles that I mentioned in my last reflection point (creative – centred in passion, vision and commitment to what matters most; reactive – driven by fear, control, approval and protecting the self)

The central tension between these is described as Safety versus Purpose.  Bob Anderson (CEO and Founder of The Leadership Circle) in his Safety vs Purpose video gives a brilliant overview of this as he describes how leaders are constantly navigating the tension between playing it safe (avoiding risk, staying comfortable) and living into their purpose (taking bold action aligned with deeper meaning).  What this really means for leaders, is that for growth and transformation to take place, it requires leaning into purpose, even when it feels unsafe.  Anderson says that this purpose is not a superficial thing – it’s something vital, something they stand for, and something they build their life and leadership around.  It’s not just a feeling.

Purpose becomes the north star that guides decisions, relationships and culture.  Anderson says that great leaders are moved by a deep sense of personal purpose, and creative leadership arises from this.

It’s self-authored, driven from the inside out, it’s focused on what is needed rather than reacting to fear.  Leaders aligned with purpose are more likely to inspire, engage, and lead with integrity.  Getting clear on your purpose can also be grounding and energizing.

Take a few minutes to consider the following reflection questions at the end of your week.

PS My highest level purpose is inspiring growth🙂

Question 1

What does “playing it safe” look like for you in your leadership role?

If you were “leaning into purpose” more, what might that look like?

Question 2

When do you feel most energized in your work?

How might that be connected to your purpose?

Question 3

Interested in diving deeper into your purpose?

Take some quiet time to reflect on what matters most to you,

and the impact you most want to create — in others,

in your work, or in the world.

If you get stuck, feel free to reach out.