“What the world needs now is wise leadership.”
These were the opening remarks of Peter Webb, Coach Psychologist Consultant, whose lecture I attended at a recent conference for leadership coaches. Move aside emotional intelligence! The next big thing to hit the work place is how to acquire wisdom.
Peter’s comments were both provocative and insightful. I should like to share some of them with you.
What is wisdom? “Wisdom may be defined as the exercise of judgment acting on experience, common sense and available information.” Tuchman 1984.
It is the ability to tackle difficult questions and dilemmas presented in your personal and professional life. Wisdom consists of knowledge with huge breadth and depth, and its application in a measured and balanced way. It is a self-awareness which provides you with the tools to nurture yourself, and to disseminate this information to others.
As Baltes et al said in 2002, “Wisdom is defined as expert knowledge about the meaning and conduct of life.”
So we know what it is, but how do we get it? Wisdom is not something obtained just in old age, although smart people often learn from life lessons – for instance making the best of things when there are set backs or obstacles, and learning how to cope with the unpredictability of life. But smart people still make mistakes because they may be egocentric, or have an unrealistically optimistic view of life. Wisdom is also acquired through personal growth and development. You have to seek wisdom intentionally, with your ultimate goal to discover universal truths, not personal glory or wealth.
Most people have a mentor, or a coach, someone whose judgment they respect, and with whom they can bounce off ideas. You can learn correct thinking patterns and skills to obtain wisdom. Use role models from life; read wise judgments; acknowledge that the journey is as important as the destination; balance self-interest with the “common good”; reflect on your values and how they impinge on what you do, and how you treat others.
How does this help you in the work place as a leader? You identify the various styles of leadership, and which one should be used. You understand the dynamics of your team, and are better placed to prepare them for the complexities of change. Conflicts are resolved more quickly. Your ability to delegate is so much more effective.
So wise up! Get in touch today. We will set you on the road to wisdom!
Wising up to the world today! - To learn more about this author, visit Julianne Kuhlmann's Website.
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