As a leader who’s witnessed firsthand the challenges and turbulence that have rocked our world in recent years, I’ve seen many of my peers struggle to navigate the complexities of leading during times of global unrest. The weight of making decisions that impact not just organizations, but the lives and well-being of countless individuals, has never been heavier.
Amid this uncertainty, I’ve observed a powerful truth: the leaders who truly uplift and sustain their communities are those who embrace the principles of liberation. They are the ones who hold contradictions, understand the deep roots of oppression, and lead with compassion and courage. In this moment of profound change, I want to share the qualities I’ve found essential for any leader who aspires to not just survive but to guide their community towards a future of true belonging, care, and connection.
1. Can hold contradictions.
The world is complex, filled with nuances that don’t always fit neatly into categories of right or wrong, good or bad. A liberatory leader understands that multiple truths can coexist, even when they seem to conflict. They navigate these contradictions with discernment, allowing space for diverse perspectives and embracing the complexity of the human experience. This ability to hold contradictions helps them make decisions that honor the multifaceted nature of their community.
2. Works to understand how oppression and social disparities impact their community.
Liberation begins with awareness. A leader committed to uplifting their community must deeply understand the historical and systemic forces of oppression that shape the lives of those they lead. This awareness isn’t just about knowledge; it’s about empathy and action. Without it, they risk perpetuating harm and trauma, often unknowingly. By actively educating themselves and listening to the voices of marginalized people, they can lead with a sense of justice and equity, ensuring that their actions contribute to healing and empowerment.
3. Has compassion for many different experiences.
Compassion is the bridge that connects a leader to their community. A liberatory leader recognizes that each person’s journey is unique, shaped by their individual experiences, identities, and challenges. By cultivating compassion, they create an environment where trust and connection can flourish. This empathy allows them to support and uplift everyone, especially those whose voices are often silenced. Compassionate leadership fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens the community's resilience.
4. Is willing to give and receive difficult feedback.
Honest feedback is essential for growth, both for the leader and the community. A liberatory leader understands that constructive feedback is a gift—it’s an opportunity to learn, improve, and deepen relationships. They are courageous in offering feedback with care and clarity and open-hearted in receiving it. By fostering a culture of transparent communication, they create feedback loops that encourage accountability and continuous improvement, ensuring that everyone can grow together.
5. Has practices for processing #trauma and self-regulating.
Liberation work is emotionally demanding, often stirring deep-seated trauma and challenging our sense of safety. A leader who is committed to this path must have personal practices for processing these emotions and self-regulating. Whether through mindfulness, therapy, or other forms of self-care, these practices help them stay grounded and present. This resilience not only benefits the leader but also serves as a model for the community, demonstrating that caring for oneself is integral to the collective struggle for freedom.
6. Is able to put those practices into motion during #conflict.
Having self-regulation practices is one thing, but the true test of a leader is their ability to apply these tools when it matters most—during moments of conflict. A liberatory leader remains calm and centered, even in the face of intense disagreement or emotional turbulence. They use their practices to navigate conflicts with grace, ensuring that disputes are handled in a way that honors the dignity and humanity of everyone involved. This approach transforms conflict into an opportunity for growth and deeper understanding.
7. Bold in embodying their values.
A leader’s values are the foundation of their leadership. A liberatory leader doesn’t just talk about their values—they live them, boldly and unapologetically. They model what it looks like to take risks to stand up for what they believe in, even when it’s uncomfortable or unpopular. Their authentic communication and actions inspire others to do the same, creating a culture of integrity and courage within the community. This alignment between values and actions is crucial for building trust and credibility.
8. Willing to examine their own biases.
We all carry biases, shaped by our upbringing, culture, and personal experiences. A liberatory leader recognizes this and is committed to the ongoing work of self-examination. They actively seek out and challenge their biases, understanding that unchecked assumptions can cause harm. By taking responsibility for their biases, they not only grow as individuals but also create a safer, more inclusive environment for their community. This willingness to confront personal growth areas is key to ethical and just leadership.
9. Willing to be wrong & change their mind with new information.
A great leader understands that growth is a journey, not a destination. They know that being wrong is not a failure but an opportunity to learn. A liberatory leader is humble enough to admit when they’ve made a mistake and open enough to change their mind when presented with new information. This humility builds trust within the community, showing that the leader values truth and growth over ego. It also sets a powerful example, encouraging others to embrace learning and adaptability.
10. Works to understand how their power impacts those around them.
Power dynamics are always at play in leadership, whether we’re aware of them or not. A liberatory leader is acutely aware of the influence they wield and is committed to using that power ethically. They maintain open lines of communication with those they lead, actively seeking feedback on how their actions and decisions impact others. This awareness allows them to use their power to uplift and empower, rather than dominate or control. By being mindful of their impact, they help create a culture of mutual respect and shared power, where everyone’s voice is valued.
From my own experience, I've seen how cultivating these qualities can truly transform how we connect to our community members, inspire action and nurture trust.
If you're ready to elevate your potential as an impactful and liberatory leader, I encourage you to consider leadership coaching as a powerful next step. Together, we can cultivate the skills and insights needed to navigate the complexities of these times, hold space for diverse experiences, and truly embody the values that will transform your community.
Leadership is not a solitary path—it’s one we walk together. Let’s connect and co-create a future where your leadership uplifts, empowers, and fosters lasting change.
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