Are you ready to leave your ego at the door and become a truly exceptional leader? Are you tired of traditional leadership approaches that prioritise power and control over values and ethics? Look no further than Harry M. Kraemer Jr.’s ground-breaking book, “From Values to Action: The Four Principles of Values-Based Leadership.” In this must-read guide, Kraemer presents a compelling framework for leadership that emphasises self-reflection, balance, true self-confidence, and genuine humility. By adopting these interconnected principles, you can change yourself into a values-based leader who inspires and empowers others. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or a youth leader, “From Values to Action” will provide you with a lifelong discipline that will set you apart in today’s complex competitive world.
- Self-Reflection: It is the ability to reflect and identify what you stand for, what your values are, and what matters most. It is the foundation of values-based leadership, as it allows you to understand yourself and your values more deeply. By engaging in regular self-reflection, you can make choices aligned with your values and lead yourself and others more effectively. Self-reflection is thus the ability to take a step back and consider your values, priorities, and actions. For example, before making a significant decision, take a few moments to reflect on your values and how they align with the decision. Or, after a stressful day, take a few minutes to reflect on what went well and what could have been done differently.
- Balance: It is the ability to see situations from multiple perspectives, including differing viewpoints, to gain a much fuller understanding. It involves considering all sides and opinions with an open mind, promoting fairness and aiding in making well-rounded decisions that consider everyone’s interests. Balance is particularly important in today’s diverse and dynamic world, where understanding and valuing different perspectives is crucial for effective leadership. For example, when faced with a difficult decision, consider how it will impact different stakeholders and their perspectives. When leading a team, ensure that everyone has a chance to share their ideas and opinions, and take the time to consider all viewpoints before making a decision.
- True Self-Confidence: It is more than just mastering certain skills. It is the ability to accept yourself as you are, recognise your strengths and weaknesses, and focus on continuous improvement. With true self-confidence, you know that there will always be people who are more gifted, accomplished, successful, and so on than you, but you’re OK with who you are. This self-confidence inspires your team and fosters a culture of authenticity and continuous improvement. For example, when presenting to a group, acknowledge your nerves but focus on your strengths and expertise. Or, when facing a challenge, recognise your limitations but focus on your ability to learn and grow.
- Genuine Humility: It is the ability never to forget who you are or where you came from. It helps you keep life in perspective, especially as you experience success in your career. Genuine humility also helps you appreciate the value of each person in your organisation and treat everyone respectfully, creating an inclusive culture that allows for collaboration and innovation. Consider, when receiving recognition for a job well done, acknowledging the contributions of others and the role they played in your success. Or, when facing a mistake, take responsibility and learn from it rather than blaming others or making excuses.
The principles of values-based leadership can change the way we lead and work. By adopting self-reflection, balance, true self-confidence, and genuine humility, leaders can go beyond their egos and create a culture of mutual respect, trust, and growth. Leadership beyond ego is not only about achieving organisational success but also about building meaningful relationships and making a positive impact on people’s lives. So, let us all adopt these principles of values-based leadership and create a better future for ourselves and our communities. “Values to Action” is a must read!