Theresa Kiely

About Theresa Kiely

Posts by Theresa Kiely:

Three Pros and Cons for Exercising Autocratic Leadership: The Pitfalls of a Top-Down Approach   

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There are three types of leadership, colloquially referred to as autocratic, participative, and laissez-faire. Autocratic leadership embodies a top-down approach. To make it simple- do as instructed, no questions asked. Participative leadership fosters collaboration and shared decision-making, often likened to a democratic style. Laissez-faire leadership delegates decision-making authority, offering minimal guidance or instruction. While each of these styles has its merits, any can be toxic if overused. Most of us tend to gravitate to one style. And that style can change if we are stressed. And that fact is scary if you are not self-aware. So, it is helpful to have a mindful approach when it comes to exercising leadership. Today, I will discuss the three pros and cons of autocratic leadership. Pro #1: Efficiency It is fast. You give the command, and it is executed. No questions asked (because you do not invite questions!). Con#1: Limited Perspective. Without soliciting input, you may be missing valuable insights from your team. Let’s face it: do you know everything your team knows? Probably not. And your team will question your instructions- they just won’t discuss it with you. Pro#2: Precision You get exactly what you want. You give the directive, and it is implemented. Con#2: Lack of Buy-in Does your team think you are perfect? That you have all the right answers? Probably not. That lack of buy-in can cause other issues, including decreased morale and motivation. Pro#3: Emergency Responsiveness Making a quick decision in a crisis can be lifesaving. When you don’t have time, and there is danger, you direct. If you see a tornado coming, you can tell people to get to the basement. People will likely follow your lead. Con#3- Trust Deficit Autocratic leaders may foster a climate of distrust, alienating team members who feel undervalued and underinformed. They may not feel like the leader is making decisions in the team’s best interest. You can see that an autocratic style often has more negative impacts than positive if it is your primary style. Just recently, I got this message in my inbox regarding cyber-attacks: “Whaling emails might not be as sophisticated as spear phishing emails, but they play on employees’ willingness to follow instructions from their boss. Recipients might suspect that something is amiss but are too afraid to confront the sender to suggest that they are being unprofessional.” If you are an autocratic leader, your organization is more likely to be targeted and experience negative impacts like this example. This happens because the team is fearful (a common outcome of autocratic leadership), or they know you do not appreciate questions, so they don’t bother to point out concerns. Self-awareness is pivotal in recognizing and mitigating autocratic tendencies, which often stem from sources such as arrogance, inexperience, or a craving for control. While autocratic leadership may be warranted in urgent or critical situations, a consultative approach can yield superior outcomes if you have time on your side. So, are you an autocratic leader? Part of mindful leadership is to be self-aware. Many assessments will analyze your leadership style. Autocratic leadership does have its place. When it comes to safety, legal, time-sensitive, or ethical decisions, you may need to employ autocratic behavior. However, if you have time and flexibility, you may have better outcomes if you consult the team affected by the decisions that need to be made. Stay tuned for insights into the pros and cons of laissez-faire leadership which I will cover in a later blog.

The Power Within: Using Mindfulness to Confront and Challenge Bias

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Let me share a story from Christmas Day 2023, when my husband and I ventured to witness the snow-covered vistas of Mount Lemmon, a peak near Tucson, Arizona. It was an idyllic day, with many others relishing the sight of saguaro cacti and the majesty of the mountains. Mount Lemmon, towering over 9,000 feet, offers a serene getaway from the heat of the Tucson valley, attracting numerous weekend visitors. As we parked to explore this bucolic mountain town, an unexpected event shook our day. A sudden impact jolted our car, prompting a surge of frustration. Stepping out, we saw the other driver seemingly fleeing before it was obvious that they were just trying to get into a parking spot. My first thought was, our car was new- we had just bought it a month ago. Ugh. We now had a deep scratch on our bumper. Despite their contrite demeanor, communication barriers compounded our confusion; they spoke no English, and we spoke no Spanish. I went to grab my phone to call a friend who could hopefully translate. Another jolt-SOS was in caps- we had no cellular service. As I looked around, finding no one who could offer help, one of them produced a translation app. Relief washed over us. He shared his name, his Mexican phone number, and his Facebook page. I snapped pictures with my phone. We made the requisite exchanges of driver’s licenses, but insurance was difficult. I looked over, and their car had a Sonora, Mexico license plate. We did not know anything about Mexican insurance. He said he would call the next day. If there is a time and place for faith, I guess it would be on Christmas Day. On the way home, my husband and I wondered how all of this would turn out. We were just a couple of hours from Mexico- they could certainly leave and not respond to us. We still had a language barrier. And we were on vacation- could we get this resolved before we left for home? We also talked about how it would not change our lives if this did not work out. We could or not- repair the damage. Sometimes, it helps to know that. A scratch is nothing in the big scheme of things. The next day, we waited. No call. I tried calling him, but I could not get through. I contacted him on Facebook- no response. I told a couple of friends about the situation, and the typical response was, “You can kiss that money goodbye.” My anxiety and bias were triggered but I tried to be aware of it. I had no reason to believe they did not have integrity. These people made every attempt to communicate and soothe our anxiety. I believe that most of us want to do the right thing, and this situation was no different. And it was Christmas- people are busy with family. I also thought about them- and this is the crux of this story. Can I put myself in their shoes? I have traveled to over 30 countries. There were times I thought I had thought I did something wrong, and I was anxious. Now, I have never hit a car, but I hope you get the point. These people were visiting a country that reeks of racism. They were at a disadvantage with knowing our system. They had no idea if I would call the police or border control to report the incident. I am sure they were also anxious about what we would do. That intentional practice of empathy actually calmed me. If this were me, how would I want to be treated? Later that day, I got a call from one of their friends who spoke English and Spanish. She asked what we wanted to do and again shared their apology and their intention to make it right. I said I would get an estimate, but it would take a couple of days. She asked if we were open to a local shop. YES! That would be perfect. We went the next morning, and their mechanic could repair it, but it would take three days. We needed a car- three days without transportation on our vacation was not an option. I really did not feel it was my responsibility to pay for a rental. I asked how much the car would cost to fix. $150! Wow- I knew my quote would be more expensive. I asked them if they were amenable to paying for the rental car and the repair if that was cheaper than my quote. They said yes. My quote was higher, over $2,000, so we went with plan A. I must admit I was still nervous- the mechanic’s place looked more like a place for cars to die than to be revived. But again, everyone was congenial and helpful. Again, intentionally engaging in empathy was key. Who was I to judge how someone ran their business? It was working out for us. We dropped the car off, and since I did not speak Spanish, I could only chat with the mechanic by playing charades. I know this is a long story, but the ending is one made for fairy tales. We picked up the car, and it looked brand new. We had no issues, and we were filled with gratitude. The translator friend was kind enough to say they would show us around and take us hiking. A very generous gesture. Reflecting on the journey, I would like to say that I was aware of my bias, but I did have moments of anxiety, which were likely triggered by societal narratives. It is hard work to be self-aware. However, my mindful intention of going to empathy was incredibly helpful. In mindful circles, there is a practice: “You are not responsible for your first thought, but you are responsible for your second thought.” Disrupting your bias is a practice. You do not just attend training and Boom- you are biased no more. It is intentional, and it is a lot of effort. The same is true for mindfulness- it is a practice. If you want to become more empathetic, it means you need to slow down and think of how others may be experiencing a situation. And in my case, it was an invaluable tool.

Intercultural Competence: Another Tool to Develop Mindful Leadership

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Embarking on the journey to become a qualified administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) has been an exciting and fulfilling experience. For those unfamiliar with the IDI, it assesses intercultural competence, defined as “the capability to shift cultural perspective and appropriately adapt behavior to cultural differences and commonalities.” Allow me to provide some context. Think of the IDI as a roadmap that indicates our current location on the map. It’s neither good nor bad; it simply informs us where we stand. Similar to cities like San Diego, New York, or Chicago, none is ideologically superior to the others; they are just different points on the map. Understanding our current position on the map gives us an opportunity to reflect on where we want to go. The IDI offers a development plan to guide us in educating ourselves or designing experiences that propel us to the next stage of our intercultural journey. While the choice to embark on this journey is optional, it presents an opportunity for personal and professional growth. You might wonder, “How does this connect to mindful leadership?” Let me tell you. As a mindful leader, I consistently emphasize the importance of self-awareness in effective leadership. How we present ourselves to others and how others experience us are crucial considerations. Unfortunately, many of us fail to inquire about these aspects, leaving us unaware. In a world that continually evolves, the demand for leaders who comprehend and wholeheartedly embrace differences is more critical than ever, especially for nonprofit organizations. In the current era of diversity, equity, and inclusion, these concepts are not just buzzwords; they signify a paradigm shift. Effective leadership now extends beyond meeting financial targets; it involves fostering a culture that thrives on embracing differences. Numerous studies underline that cultural competence is not merely a feel-good concept; it significantly contributes to organizational health, a vital aspect for nonprofits in all contexts. You might wonder, “Great, but how do we achieve cultural competence?” This is where mindfulness and intention take center stage. It requires a strategic and practiced approach, as cultural competence is not a passive trait that magically appears; it’s a deliberate journey that hones skills. Much like leadership, it takes time and practice. Similar to leadership itself, cultural competence demands thoughtful planning and continuous effort. It’s not a checkbox on a to-do list; rather, it’s an ongoing process that requires our presence, open-mindedness, and a willingness to learn. So, here’s to the mindful leaders of the future – those who recognize the significance of cultural competence, embrace diversity with open arms, and understand that success transcends mere numbers. It’s about crafting a workplace where everyone can not only exist but thrive. I extend an invitation for you to join me in exploring the rich tapestry of cultural competence and mindful leadership. Let’s move beyond understanding differences; let’s celebrate them. After all, a workplace that values diversity is destined for greatness. By the way, I am proud to announce that I have received my certification and am now an IDI Qualified Administrator. Follow me on social media @drtheresarickekiely on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. #mindfulleadership #nonprofitleadership Watch for my upcoming book on mindful nonprofit leadership coming soon!

Bridging the Gap: Addressing the Volunteer Decline Head-On

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According to NPR, volunteering is on the decline again. As a lifelong, dedicated volunteer who has served nonprofits for my entire career, this decline is disheartening. Nonprofits do what government can’t and businesses won’t. They need our time, talent, and treasure. They are the heart of our communities. Nonprofits play a crucial role in supporting missions supporting equity, healthcare, youth activities, civil rights, and religious activities. Without nonprofits, our communities would start to crumble. They are the backbone of civil society and contribute to our quality of life. I don’t believe resolutions require a new year to be made, but if you are inclined to start anew this month, I encourage you to identify a cause or mission to which you can contribute generously. Volunteering is a good way. But only if you can commit. Episodic volunteerism is not a great practice and often can do more harm than good. Find a mission. Get to know the people. Support them in myriad ways through genuine partnership. Let’s collectively commit to the betterment of our communities. https://www.npr.org/2023/12/13/1218999240/volunteering-in-the-u-s-is-on-the-decline-reports-say Follow me on social media @drtheresarickekiely on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. #mindfulleadership #nonprofitleadership Watch for my upcoming book on mindful nonprofit leadership coming soon!

The Heart of Leadership: Making a Lasting Impact

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In this post, I want to dive into a powerful quote that resonates deeply with me: “Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence.” These wise words come from none other than Sheryl Sandberg, and they encapsulate a principle that I hold close to my heart—one that is at the core of mindful leadership. Have you ever heard someone vengefully boast, “They’ll be sorry when I leave.” Or “Just wait and see- things will all fall apart without me.”? Well, here’s the truth: if things crumble once you’re gone, you might not have done your job as a leader. Leadership isn’t about creating a temporary house of straw; it’s about building something that stands the test of time. Throughout my career, I’ve embraced the idea of mentoring my team, especially my direct reports. It’s not just about leading and managing while you’re around; it’s about equipping others with the leadership skills and knowledge to step up when you step out. I’m proud to say that in most cases where someone aspired to climb the ladder of leadership, they’ve been ready and confident to apply for the job. And most of them were promoted. There’s a unique satisfaction in knowing you’ve crafted something that outlasts your own presence. Now, here’s the head-scratcher: Why do some folks want their organization or department to fall once they bid adieu? I think it all boils down to that tricky little thing called ego. Ego can be a potent force, especially when it operates in the shadows of our awareness. I often say the ego is the most fragile part of us- easily bruised and broken with mere words. Being a mindful leader means being self-aware. It’s about recognizing that leadership isn’t a one-person show; it’s an ensemble where everyone plays a vital role. If you find yourself secretly wishing for chaos to break out after you leave, it might be time to check that ego at the door. True leaders understand that their legacy isn’t measured by the chaos left behind but by the sustainable impact they’ve created. So, here’s to mindful leadership—building something that lasts, empowering others, and leaving a positive mark that echoes long after you’ve moved on. Follow me on social media @drtheresarickekiely on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. #mindfulleadership #nonprofitleadership Watch for my upcoming book on mindful nonprofit leadership coming soon!

The ABC’s to a Gratitude Practice

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The ABC’s to a Gratitude Practice 

Hey folks! Today, I want to talk about gratitude, but in a simple, down-to-earth way.  

When we think about it, we often frame gratitude as saying thank you for the big stuff or to particular people. “I am grateful for my team… (which, btw I am!). But gratitude is also about appreciating the little things; it is what I call a “way of being.”  

So, here I am, sitting in my living room, sipping on some awesome coffee, feeling all comfy on my couch. These are things I usually don’t give a second thought, but as a mindfulness buff, I’m taking a moment to soak in the good vibes and reflect on these small, beautiful moments. Just a few seconds of awareness and focus is a great way to start a practice of mindfulness.  

Now, I want to share a gratitude trick that has been a game-changer for me. Gratitude is as easy as ABC. I will share two examples of how I use it, and I am sure you can come up with others.   

Do you have a hard time sitting in traffic? I know that when I see that it may take me much longer to get to my destination and people in other vehicles are frazzled, that feeling of frustration comes across to me as I sit in my car waiting to move. This is when I take advantage of not having control to taking control and actively managing my thoughts. I recalibrate by changing my focus from the person who is literally slowing me down to the gratitude ABC game. It is pretty simple. I start with the letter A and think of something I am grateful for. My mom’s name was Anita, and she is always the first on my list. Now that she is no longer walking on this earth, I think about what she sacrificed for me. (Mom, I continue to be grateful for all you have given me!) I then go to B, which may be something like- I paid all my bills this month. An activity that people sometimes resent flips the emotion into gratitude. Then go to C, D, E, etc. Find something that begins with that letter to appreciate.   

Let me give you another example. Ever lay in bed, your mind racing with thoughts? Some people call this the monkey mind- thoughts swinging from one thing to the next. Yeah, been there. But going through the ABC gratitude game actually makes your body feel better, and I have a hard time getting to the end of the alphabet before I get to the metaphorical zzz’s. This practice is a one-way ticket to Snoozeville.  

The ABC gratitude activity can be done anywhere and is a good pivot when you are not feeling great, like when you are starting to feel frustrated, stressed, or bored. It is easy to use while you are waiting in line at the grocery store, doing the dishes, or other everyday experiences.  

Sometimes, life’s not all rainbows and unicorns, and finding gratitude can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But if we can just nudge ourselves toward a bit of appreciation, it can totally lift our spirits.  

As we wrap up one year and kick off a new one, take a second to jot down those little things from 2023 that low-key made your year. And when you flip that calendar into a brand new year, dream about what you’re going to be thankful for in 2024. Mindfulness is a journey; it takes time, a bit of intention, and a lot of awareness.  

 
Follow me on social media @drtheresarickekiely on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. #mindfulleadership #nonprofitleadership Watch for my upcoming book on mindful nonprofit leadership coming soon! 

The Reality Check: 5 Reasons to NOT Start Your Own Nonprofit

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Do you dream of starting your own nonprofit? You are not alone. The desire to make a positive impact is commendable; many people share this aspiration. As a nonprofit professor and leadership consultant, I’ve encountered numerous students, alumni, and colleagues eager to embark on their mission to help others and contribute to their communities. However, before you dive headfirst into the world of nonprofit entrepreneurship, let me offer you a reality check with five reasons NOT to move forward. And be sure to read the whole blog and you will see how I connect this to mindful leadership. 1. Lack of Originality Let’s face a hard truth – in the nonprofit world, original ideas are rare. If you doubt this, try inputting your mission into a database like Guidestar.org. More often than not, you’ll find many existing organizations with similar objectives. In my city (not county), I put the phrase “achievement gap” into the Guidestar search box. This term brought up over a dozen organizations working on this mission (by the way, this is an outdated term; more appropriately, it is the opportunity gap). In my state, we have big issues tackling systemic racism in our educational institutions, consistently falling near the end of the list. When I added education as a mission into Guidestar, over 1500 organizations popped up. With all of these organizations, millions of state and donor dollars, and thousands of people trying to create a quality education system for our students, we still fail. We don’t need another nonprofit. Assessing your concept’s uniqueness before investing time and diverting resources is crucial. 2. Financial Realities Starting a nonprofit won’t fill your pockets, at least not immediately. In fact, it might never turn a profit. Before incorporating, investigate potential funding sources. Donors and grantors are often reluctant to support startup organizations, so securing financial backing for your cause should be a top priority before you incorporate. 3. Scarce Resources The nonprofit sector is already burdened with a shortage of competent board members and generous donors. Creating a new organization often diverts these valuable resources from existing missions, potentially harming the community rather than helping it. Engage with current board presidents and executive directors to understand the challenges of adequate (and sustainable) human and monetary resources. 4. Time Investment Impact takes time. Consider your theory of change – how long will it realistically take for your nonprofit to make a meaningful difference? New startups often require years or even decades to establish credibility and deliver substantial outcomes and impact. 5. High Failure Rate Running a nonprofit is demanding and may not always be rewarding. It takes a lot of resilience. Do you possess the diverse skill set required to manage human resources, finance, marketing, volunteer coordination, and program quality effectively? The failure rate for new nonprofits is notably high, emphasizing the difficulty of leading new organizations. I don’t mean to crush your dreams. While these reasons may seem discouraging, there are ways you can contribute to your community while you gain experience, network, and learn about the nonprofit landscape. If you believe in your idea, test it out first. Nonprofits value and need innovation. They want dedicated volunteers. Demonstrate the viability of your concept within your community through a partnership with a current organization before seeking support from grantmakers and donors. Who knows, if your idea is that lucrative, you may be hired, and you won’t have to worry about the drudgery of administration. So, what does this have to do with mindfulness? So many of us are driven by our egos, thinking we can lead better than anyone else. For some of us, that is true. But for many of us, that is not the case- especially early in our careers. Learning how to lead is developmental. It is a hands-on experience. So, ask yourself, am I doing this alone because it is a unique idea, and I am the best person to move it forward? Many of us are guided by our egos, and engaging in mindfulness diminishes the frequently self-centered inner dialogue. Mindfulness cultivates a mindset conducive to collaboration and teamwork, fostering more effective partnerships. Starting a nonprofit is a significant undertaking that demands careful consideration. Rather than jumping into the deep end, explore avenues to fulfill your passion and positively impact your community. Join a board. Be a volunteer. Offer to start a social entrepreneurship for a well-run nonprofit that wants to expand. After all, proving the worth of your idea on a smaller scale may be the key to unlocking the support you need to make a lasting difference. Follow me on social media @drtheresarickekiely on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. #mindfulleadership #nonprofitleadership Watch for my upcoming book on mindful nonprofit leadership coming soon!

Navigating Mindful Leadership: Understanding Three Types of Nonprofit Board Governance

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I recently attended a nonprofit conference brimming with innovative ideas and groundbreaking nonprofit research. One session particularly caught my attention as it delved into redefining the role of nonprofit boards. Yeah! I agree, we need a new model. While the notion of community-centric governance models is exciting, the reality is that change takes time. So, for now, let’s take a closer look at three prevailing nonprofit governance models: fiduciary, strategic, and generative. Fiduciary Boards: The Watchdogs Imagine a fiduciary board as the vigilant watchdog of a nonprofit. Its primary function is safeguarding assets, ensuring that organizational resources are used judiciously, and maintaining an eye on legal and ethical compliance (e.g., Sarbanes-Oxley). This model is all about stewardship. Fiduciary boards ask questions about opportunity costs, questions about audits, and assessing how well the budget aligns with the mission. Strategic Boards: Beyond Compliance, Toward Goals Moving a step beyond compliance, a strategic board aims to set goals and execute a well-thought-out plan. The board scans internal and external environments (e.g., SWOT analysis), establishes priorities, and reviews and tweaks strategic plans. The board may ask questions about alignment with strategic priorities and competition in the landscape. Generative Boards: Intentional and Mindful Ideally, we aspire for generative boards — the visionary leaders of nonprofits. These boards ensure fiduciary needs are met and there is a strategy, but they go beyond those conversations. These boards go beyond the logical and the established, thinking outside the box and even outside the room. Their central purpose is to be a source of leadership for the organization. The core work involves deciding what to decide, probing assumptions, logic, and values behind strategies, and framing “better” problems and opportunities. The board brainstorms, allows pregnant pauses for processing, and asks questions about how decisions align with the mission. The board reflects on how it spends its time, using tools like a consent agenda to ensure time is not wasted on routine, noncontroversial items. All three governance models are crucial in ensuring nonprofit organizational effectiveness. However, achieving generative governance requires an intentional and critical thinking approach. They embrace a learning culture and continuously explore ways to prepare for the future. As we navigate nonprofit leadership, it’s essential to acknowledge that the journey toward generative governance may take time, but the destination promises a more dynamic and resilient nonprofit sector. Follow me on social media @drtheresarickekiely on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. #mindfulleadership #nonprofitleadership Watch for my upcoming book on mindful nonprofit leadership coming soon!

Compassion in Leadership: A Mindful Approach to Self-Care

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Compassion in Leadership: A Mindful Approach to Self-Care The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. However, for some of us, it can be a season of anxiety, stress, or even sadness. As leaders, it’s crucial to recognize that our mood and mental well-being can significantly impact not only ourselves but also our teams. In the midst of challenges, practicing mindfulness becomes an invaluable tool for self-care and effective leadership. One such technique that can guide us through difficult moments is a mindful practice called RAIN – Recognize, Allow, Investigate, and Nurture. Recognize: Notice what is happening here and now. The first step in the RAIN technique is recognition. Take a moment to pause and observe what is happening around you and within you. Acknowledge your thoughts, feelings, and emotions without judgment. By recognizing the present moment, you gain a deeper understanding of your state of mind. Allow: Let everything within you and around you be just as it is. After recognizing your current state, the next step is to allow it to be just as it is. Embrace the reality of the moment without trying to change it. This step involves cultivating a non-judgmental awareness and accepting both the positive and negative aspects of your experience. Allowing creates space for a more profound connection with yourself. Investigate: With curiosity, ask yourself what you are experiencing in your body and your mind. With recognition and allowance, turn your attention inward. Approach your thoughts and emotions with curiosity, asking yourself questions about what you are experiencing in your body and mind. This step involves a gentle exploration, fostering self-awareness and understanding. Investigating your feelings can unveil insights that may be crucial for your well-being. Nurture: Extend kindness and compassion to yourself. What do you need? Offer yourself a message of care. The final step in the RAIN technique is nurturing – offering yourself the care you need. Identify what you require at that moment, whether it’s understanding, patience, or simply a moment of stillness. Extend kindness and compassion to yourself, as you would to a friend facing a challenge. This step is about self-compassion and creating an environment of emotional support. Tara Brach, a mindful leader and expert, has many resources on the RAIN technique and if you are more of an audio or visual learner, here is a talk and meditation on the Rain of Self Compassion: https://www.tarabrach.com/the-rain-of-self-compassion/ As mindful leaders, our ability to lead effectively is intrinsically tied to our mental and emotional well-being. The RAIN technique serves as a powerful tool for cultivating mindfulness, self-awareness, and compassion. By recognizing, allowing, investigating, and nurturing our experiences, we can navigate through challenging moments with resilience and grace. This season, let us not only lead our teams but also lead ourselves with mindfulness, ensuring that joy becomes a shared experience in both our personal and professional lives. Subscribe on my website theresarickekiely.com. Follow me on social media @drtheresarickekiely on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. #mindfulleadership #nonprofitleadership Watch for my upcoming book on mindful nonprofit leadership coming soon!

The Power of Reflective Practice: Why Every Leader Should Conduct a “Leadership Autopsy”

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Have you ever made a mistake as a leader? Or have you made assumptions that were so off they did not seem to relate to the situation? I think we have all had these blunders. If you are a learning and mindful leader, you don’t see these as mistakes; you see them as growth opportunities. Every leadership mistake contains hidden gems of wisdom waiting to be discovered through a process called reflective practice. It’s the process of delving deep into our assumptions, biases, and expectations, which can lead to profound self-discovery and enhanced leadership effectiveness. As a leadership scholar, I firmly believe in the significance of reflecting on these errors to improve our leadership skills and cultivate a more effective and authentic leadership style. Reflective practice is a deliberate process that involves looking back on your actions and decisions with a critical and open mind. This practice encourages leaders (and/or teams) to dissect their mistakes, learn from them, and consciously avoid repeating them. The power of reflective practice lies in its potential to uncover vulnerabilities and opportunities for growth, enabling you to become a better leader. In my teams, I like to call this process a “leadership autopsy.” Just as a forensic autopsy examines the causes of death in a person, a leadership autopsy dissects the factors that led to a leadership mishap or failure. It involves looking over the “dead” event to identify where things went wrong and what can be improved, all with the intention of handling similar situations more effectively in the future. Conducting a leadership autopsy is not for the faint of heart. It demands humility and a willingness to acknowledge your own shortcomings. It requires you to set your ego aside and take a long, hard look at your own actions and decisions, even when it may be uncomfortable or painful. Sometimes, the process can be traumatic. You may uncover instances where you’ve unknowingly inflicted harm or made decisions that hurt your team. But this discomfort is a vital part of the process. Recognizing the harm you’ve caused is the first step toward rectifying it and becoming a better leader. The ultimate goal of a leadership autopsy is growth, learning, and increased leadership effectiveness. As leaders, we are not infallible. We will make mistakes. The key to being an effective and exceptional leader lies in how we handle these mistakes. Embracing reflective practice and conducting leadership autopsies can be transformative, challenging us to confront our own limitations and encouraging us to strive for continuous improvement. It takes humility and courage, but the rewards are immeasurable. So, the next time you make a leadership mistake, remember the power of the leadership autopsy – it’s your opportunity to grow, learn, and become a more effective leader. Subscribe on my website theresarickekiely.com. Follow me on social media @drtheresarickekiely on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. #mindfulleadership #nonprofitleadership Watch for my upcoming book on mindful nonprofit leadership coming soon!
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