The importance of having a leadership philosophy

How do you lead? Why do you lead that way? Can you answer those questions concisely and confidently?

I know I sometimes struggle to answer them! Having had the opportunity to ask these questions of few leaders recently, it made me revisit a concept that could help us answer these more diligently. In a time where ChatGpt controls our conversations I realised that, as good as it is, it cannot replace a leader’s ability to understand how they wish to lead effectively. A leadership philosophy is what I believe is needed to help answer those sticky questions above.

What is a leadership philosophy?

A leadership philosophy is a set of core values, beliefs, and principles that guide and inform how you lead. It’s the foundation from which you make decisions, take actions, and develop your own unique style of leadership. Mine has been shaped by my personal experiences as well as lessons I have learned from leaders, such as James Comey, Marcus Aurelius and Arnold Schwarzenegger to name to a few.  By having one it has also helped me refine my leadership style and helped me drive towards my leadership goals.

The importance of having a personal leadership philosophy.

Having a personal leadership philosophy is essential for being a successful leader. As a leader, it is important to have clarity on who you are and what you believe in, so that you can make decisions that align with your core values and beliefs. It reflects the values that you should strive to uphold and the principles you want to live by in order to achieve your goals. This philosophy can help you stay focused on the things that matter most whilst guiding you towards making more conscious decisions that will benefit both yourself and those around you.   

Text book styles of leadership:

There are a vast array of different leadership styles that can provide an excellent starting point for understanding how to best lead in any given situation. The most relatable ones come from the Full Range Leadership Model (FRLM). The styles range from the autocratic, where one has complete control over decisions and outcomes, to the laissez-faire leadership approach, where a leader allows others to take the initiative in determining what needs to be done.

There is also a style called transformational leadership as part of the FRLM. Transformational leadership is a type of leadership style in which a leader works with their team to identify needed change, create a vision to guide the change, and inspire and motivate employees to work together to implement the change. Transformational leaders are focused on inspiring their followers to be creative, take risks, and think outside the box.

These styles offer a starting point to understand where peoples’ leadership skills are more naturally suited and what effects they can have.  That being said, never forget the power of doing what is natural! 

Creating, living and becoming your leadership philosophy:

Creating an effective leadership philosophy requires you to take a step back and assess yourself and your values. Think about what you believe in, the goals you set for yourself, the skills you need to be successful, and the principles that define your leadership approach. Once you have a good understanding of your own core beliefs, it’s time to create a statement, set of beliefs, guiding principles that capture your personal leadership stand-point.

Do you have a set of core values you already align to and support how you make crucial decisions? Do you know what leadership style you want to emulate?

Leadership philosophy examples

Here are a few statements that I have seen used by others leaders to craft theirs, and also part of mine to get you thinking about what it looks like:

·         Have a vision and work to it, non stop.

·         Stay the course, chart he way and communicate it frequently.

·         Don't sweat the small stuff, focus on what matters most. Execute the important, not the urgent.

·         Do what I love and make a difference every day.

·         Be noble and daring.

My tips for writing a leadership philosophy:

1. Identify Your Role Models - Consider what successful leaders have done that you admire and strive to emulate.

2. Brainstorm Your Core Leadership Principles/Values - Make a list of the core principles that define who you are and how you act.

3. Draft Your Leadership Philosophy Statement/Principles/Ethos - Write a statement which captures the essence of your beliefs about leading others and teams.

4. Share It With Others - Share your leadership philosophy statement with colleagues and mentors for feedback and suggestions.

This article was contributed by Luke Johnson, Strategic Advisor.