Before we get started, let me clarify spirituality. Spirituality is different from religion. Spirituality offers one individual freedom to delve into fundamental and deeper issues into humanity, such as seeking the meaning and purpose of life, understanding who we are as people-our beingness as opposed to our doingness, work/life balance, empathy and compassion, and embracing diversity and our interconnectedness with all of creation. Spirituality is practicing an evolution of consciousness which stems from questioning; whereas, religion keeps us stuck in strict dogmas which don’t lend themselves to questioning. Most organized religions usually do not lead themselves to flexibility and openness.
That being said, spiritual principles have a great influence and impact on leadership in business, organizations and within the family. In years past, leadership stemmed from the mindset of control and higher authority which was usually inflexible and restrictive. This was accomplished because the majority of people being lead were uneducated and not informed. They were truly at the mercy of their leaders who feed them physically, mentally, and spiritually. The followers were not allowed to question and those that did were persecuted; thus instilling fear in others.
However, as humanity becomes more and more educated and informed, we as a people are making a stand for basic human rights. Therefore, successful leaders today are transforming into leaders of empathy, integrity, authenticity, and openness They are open to input from the workforce, engage them to seek solutions to issues, and are willing to make changes when necessary. This demonstrates a sense of humility which develops trust and connectedness within organizations.
Spirituality in leadership employs a servant-leadership style which is becoming a fast global phenomenon where institutions are adopting a servant mindset and adopting the idea of a triple bottom line. A triple bottom line focuses on the impact the organization has on people, planet and profits. This type of leadership impacts the well-being of the employees, the executive teams, and filters out into the community, world and families. Thus creating a lasting and sustainable legacy.
