15/10/2024
Today we face a multitude of complex systemic issues that threaten the health and wellbeing of our communities and our planet. The complexity is such that no one individual or organisation can effectivley respond to the challenge. Systems change is complex and it requires a unique form of leadership. We need leaders who are capable of thinking holistically and critically, recognising patterns, engaging diverse stakeholders, navigating complexity, inspiring change, leveraging networks and working beyond the limitations of their own organisation and sector. In this way, systems leaders are both artists and scientists.
"Over time, their [systems leader's] profound commitment to the health of the whole radiates to nurture similar commitment in others. Their ability to see reality through the eyes of people very different from themselves encourages others to be more open as well. They build relationships based on deep listening, and networks of trust and collaboration start to flourish. They are so convinced that something can be done that they do not wait for a fully developed plan, thereby freeing others to step ahead and learn by doing. Indeed, one of their greatest contributions can come from the strength of their ignorance, which gives them permission to ask obvious questions and to embody an openness and commitment to their own ongoing learning and growth that eventually infuse larger change efforts."
Source: Senge, P., Hamilton, H., & Kania, J. (2014). The Dawn of System Leadership. Stanford Social Innovation Review, 13(1), 27-33
Do you see yourself as a systems leader? Does your organisation cultivate the conditions to support systems leaders? What difference would it make if we cultivated systems leadership across our organisations and communities?
