What do you think of when you hear the word "holistic"? I would dare say you think of something in it's entirety, and that is correct. Something that is whole is complete. A holistic leader understands their entire being. They recognize they are not defined by what they do, but who they are. Holistic leadership can also be organizational; however, we are going to look at it from a personal leadership standpoint.
For an individual to be whole and complete is a challenge because no matter how hard we try to maintain balance, life is always changing. Life brings unexpected complications and opportunities. As a leader we want to become aware of how we best maintain balance and live an integrated life. A holistic leader is self-aware and understands their values and what drives them. A holistic leader knows there is harmony to maintain between both the mind and body as well as relationships, finances, community and spiritual being.
As a leader people are looking to you to maintain symmetry. They do not expect you to be perfect, but they do need their leader to know who they are and live a life that sets an example holistically: body (taking care of your physical body -eating healthy, exercise, and rest), soul (mind, will and emotions) and spirit.
Here are a few things you can do to lead holistically:
- Know who you are and were you come from
- Know what your values are and how they tie into your life story - this will help you prioritize
- Know what motivates you both intrinsically and extrinsically
- Know how to take care of yourself emotionally , mentally and physically and the importance of valuing and prioritizing these components
- Be aware of relationships and the value they play in who you are
- Identify what is important to you spiritually and be true to that
- Practice financial awareness and balance this with your extrinsic motivations
- Build a support and accountability group to help you practice being holistic and authentic.
Ground Level
Base Camp
Alpine
Summit Approach
Summit