Beyond the horizon: Leading with values and connection in an unpredictable world
The global landscape this week alone has underscored a profound sense of uncertainty. Headlines have screamed of a dictated peace deal for Ukraine involving significant territorial concessions and no security guarantees, raising questions about long-term stability in Eastern Europe. Domestically, first-quarter reports are beginning to reveal the challenges Fortune 500 companies face in economic forecasting amidst high market volatility. Adding to the unease, another leak of classified information without apparent consequences for the Secretary of Defense has shaken trust in the safeguarding of sensitive national security data. Furthermore, the disturbing news that individuals have gone missing entirely while in federal government custody raises alarming questions about accountability and human rights.
Even the Supreme Court intervened last weekend, halting the deportation of alleged gang members under the 1798 Alien Enemies Act and preventing the transfer of people to a maximum-security prison for terrorists in El Salvador, highlighting legal and ethical debates surrounding immigration enforcement. Finally, a new round of executive orders seeking to influence university hiring and K-12 discipline practices signals increasing federal intervention in education.
In such a climate of rapid and unsettling change, how can purpose-driven leaders maintain focus and guide teams toward their purpose as they look beyond the immediate horizon? This article explores two essential strategies: anchoring in core values and cultivating relational spaciousness.
Strategy 1: Value Clarification and Alignment (Anchoring)
In the midst of chaos, a leader's compass is their core values. These values are not merely abstract ideals; they are the bedrock upon which decisions are made and actions are taken. They can serve as an anchor when facing political upheaval. Revisiting and reinforcing these values provides a sense of stability and direction. It ensures that even as the landscape shifts, your organization remains true to its purpose as it navigates the path ahead.
Consider the recent passing of Pope Francis. His leadership serves as a powerful example of anchoring in values. And while you may not be a global spiritual leader, consider adapting his strategies to your unique leadership context.
Pope Francis consistently emphasized the importance of serving the marginalized and prioritizing inclusivity. His encyclicals and actions reflected a deep commitment to these principles. This value-driven approach allowed him to navigate complex challenges within the Catholic Church, providing a clear and consistent message amidst internal and external pressures. His commitment to serving those who were pushed aside became a beacon in a world filled with exclusion, guiding the church's direction beyond the immediate concerns.
Actionable Takeaway: Purpose-driven leaders should regularly reflect on their personal and organizational values. Ensure these values are not just words on a page, but are actively reflected in daily decisions and strategic planning as you look towards future challenges. Ask yourself: “Are my actions and my organization’s actions truly aligned with our core values as we venture beyond the known?”
Timeline Mapping Exercise: You create a timeline of significant moments or turning points in your leadership journey (time needed: 30-60 minutes)
1.Create your Map: Map out significant moments in your leadership journey. For each significant event in the timeline, reflect on:
🧭 What were the core values that guided my actions (even if subconsciously) in this situation?
🧭 Were these values aligned with my current understanding of my core values?
🧭 If there was a conflict or misalignment, what were the consequences, and what did I learn?
🧭 Looking back, what values do I wish I had prioritized more strongly in that situation?
2. Identify Patterns: Now take a step back, and look for recurring values that consistently influence your leadership, both positively and negatively. This helps you identify deeply held values and blind spots.
3. Set Intentions: Identify 1-2 key values you want to prioritize and embody more strongly in your leadership moving forward. What will these values look like and sound like in action?
Regular engagement with these types of reflections can lead to greater self-awareness, more aligned decision-making, and a stronger sense of purpose in your leadership.
Pope Francis embraces Vinicio Riva after the general audience on Nov. 6, 2013. | Credit: Vatican Media
Strategy 2: Cultivating Relational Spaciousness (Expanding)
Uncertainty can trigger a natural inclination to withdraw, to focus inward and protect against perceived threats. However, purpose-driven leaders understand the power of connection as they navigate the unknown. Cultivating relational spaciousness means maintaining strong bonds with your people, actively listening, and practicing empathy. It means creating space for others to be heard, even when the pressure is intense and the future seems unclear. It can help you and your team understand the impact of rapid change on one another’s lives, and create a powerful holding environment.
Pope Francis excelled at building relational spaciousness. He connected with people from all walks of life, demonstrating genuine humility and interest in their well-being. His simple gestures, such as riding the bus and living in modest accommodations, conveyed a sense of solidarity and connection. His request for prayers, acknowledging the weight of his responsibilities, exemplified his humanity and fostered a sense of shared purpose as they collectively faced an uncertain future. He showed that even in a position of power, vulnerability and openness are strengths in navigating the complexities ahead.
Actionable Takeaway: Prioritize building and maintaining relationships as you journey beyond the familiar. Actively listen to your teams and stakeholders, seeking to understand their perspectives and concerns about the future. Practice empathy, recognizing the human element in every interaction as you navigate uncharted territory. Create space for dialogue and collaboration as you look towards what lies beyond. Ask yourself: “Am I creating an environment where others feel heard and valued as we move into the unknown?” Try this exercise to cultivate relational spaciousness:
The 3 Question Check-In Practice (time needed: 10-15 minutes). This practice cultivates relational spaciousness by creating space for people to just be. It allows you to find out how your people are doing and the meaning they are making. Try Implementing a regular, brief check-in (individually or a quick team huddle) using the following three questions:
What's on your mind? This open-ended question allows individuals to bring up anything important to them, whether work-related or personal, creating space for their current concerns.
How are you feeling about things? This focuses on their emotional well-being and provides an opportunity to identify any stress, excitement, or other feelings that might be impacting their work or engagement.
What support do you need from me (or the team)? This directly invites your people to ask for help and reinforces the leader's role in providing support. It fosters trust and collaboration.
Implementation:
🔗 Be consistent: Schedule these check-ins regularly and stick to them as much as possible.
🔗 Actively listen to whomever is speaking. Be fully engaged and present.
🔗 Follow-Up: If any needs or concerns are raised during the check-in, your follow-up demonstrates your care and trustworthiness. Failure to follow up or remember the conversation can undermine your credibility.
🔗 Time-Bound: Keep these check-ins focused and respectful of everyone's time. Even a 10-15 minute focused conversation can be powerful.
This regular practice creates dedicated space for connection, allowing you to stay informed about individual and team well-being, and proactively address potential issues. It fosters a culture of open communication and support, strengthens relationships and builds trust over time.
Navigating uncertainty requires a blend of inner strength and outward connection as we look beyond the immediate horizon. By anchoring in core values and cultivating relational spaciousness, purpose-driven leaders can steer their organizations through turbulent times while remaining true to their purpose and vision for what lies ahead. These strategies are not just theoretical concepts; they are practical tools for building resilience and fostering meaningful impact as we collectively face an unpredictable world. The legacy of leaders like Pope Francis reminds us that even in the face of immense challenges, purpose-driven leadership can create lasting positive change that extends far beyond the present moment.
How do you navigate uncertainty in your leadership as you look beyond the horizon? Reflect on how you can apply these principles to your own leadership journey as you face the unpredictable world ahead. What is one way you've anchored in your values during a time of leading through uncertainty? Contact us for support with authentic, values-grounded leadership.