The core concept that many find challenging to accept is that leaders should be wise. But when it comes to the details, such as what a wise leader looks like, whether they can be ambitious, or if wisdom only comes with age, we start to see hesitation. It’s no wonder, then, that not much has been written about the relationship between wisdom and leading.

So what is wisdom?

So if we agree that wisdom is important and we should have it or acquire it as a leader, then what is it? In my previous blog post, I speak to what wisdom is and the constant pursuit of it. If you have not read it, the suffice it to say that researchers define it as the ability to perceive and analyze a situation with the capacity to take the right action at the correct moment. It is a complex human characteristic that includes decision making, emotional regulation, prosocial behavior (such as empathy and compassion), self-reflection, acceptance of uncertainty and decisiveness.

Wisdom is unique and rare; it is a combination of knowledge, experience, and insight that allows a person to make sound decisions and judgments. It requires a deep understanding and appreciation of oneself and others. Wisdom is often associated with maturity, as it requires a certain level of life experience and reflection to develop. It also involves an awareness of the consequences of one’s decisions and the ability to see the big picture. It is about having an understanding of complexities, the ability to see all sides of a situation, and the capacity to make decisions that are in sync with the greater good.

Wisdom is also a form of emotional intelligence, as it requires the capacity to recognize and understand our own emotions and those of others. It enables us to manage our own feelings and to act in a manner that is beneficial to ourselves and those around us. Wisdom has been described as having a ‘heart-mind’ balance, which is an ability to combine reason with compassion. This combination allows us to make decisions that are not only rational, but also beneficial to the people involved.

Ten Ways

Wisdom plays a crucial role in effective leadership, as it enables leaders to make thoughtful decisions, inspire others, and navigate complex situations with insight and integrity. Consider the following ten ways that wisdom plays an important part of being a good leader.

1. Informed Decision-Making:
   Wisdom allows leaders to weigh various options, consider potential consequences, and make informed decisions that align with long-term goals. Wise leaders don’t rush into choices; they take the time to gather information, seek advice, and evaluate the broader impact of their decisions.
2. Ethical Leadership:
   Wise leaders are guided by a strong sense of ethics and morality. They make choices that are not only beneficial for the organization but also aligned with values and principles. Wisdom helps leaders avoid unethical shortcuts and make choices that prioritize the greater good.
3. Emotional Intelligence:
   Wisdom enhances emotional intelligence, enabling leaders to understand their own emotions and those of others. This leads to empathetic and compassionate leadership, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
4. Conflict Resolution:
   Leaders encounter conflicts and challenges regularly. Wisdom allows them to approach conflicts with patience, understanding, and the ability to see various perspectives. They can mediate disputes and find solutions that benefit all parties involved.
5. Effective Communication:
   Wise leaders communicate with clarity, humility, and respect. They listen actively to their team members, consider different viewpoints, and express themselves in ways that resonate and inspire.
6. Adaptability:
   In a rapidly changing world, wise leaders are adaptable and open to new ideas. They have the foresight to recognize trends and shifts, and they can adjust their strategies and plans accordingly.
7. Long-Term Vision:
   Wisdom allows leaders to focus on the long-term vision rather than short-term gains. They consider the sustainable growth and development of their organization and take actions that contribute to its enduring success.
8. Mentorship and Development:
   Wise leaders mentor and develop their team members, guiding them on their own paths to growth and leadership. They provide insights and guidance based on their experiences, helping others learn from both successes and failures.
9. Crisis Management:
   During times of crisis, wisdom shines. Wise leaders remain composed, assess the situation calmly, and make decisions that mitigate damage and ensure the organization’s well-being.
10. Personal Growth and Reflection:
    Wise leaders continuously engage in self-reflection and personal growth. They acknowledge their limitations, seek feedback, and work on their weaknesses, setting an example for their team.

In essence, wisdom is the cornerstone of effective leadership, enabling leaders to make decisions that are in the best interest of the organization and its people. It enables leaders to assess situations accurately, recognize opportunities and challenges, and inspire others with their vision. It enables leaders to navigate difficult and unexpected scenarios, and to develop and adjust strategies accordingly. It also encourages open communication and respectful dialogue, allowing leaders to connect with their team members, build strong relationships, and trust in one another. With wisdom, leaders can develop an environment of collaboration, mutual respect, and shared learning, creating an atmosphere of growth and development.

References

1. Jeste, Dilip V. – “The New Science of Practical Wisdom.” (2019)
2. Daniel Goleman “Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ”
3. Robert Sternberg – “WICS: A Model of Educational Leadership” (2007)