What leaders can learn from parents
As a parent of two young girls, I often see the parallels between good parenting and transformational leadership, because parents are leaders, and they lead their families.
Within the context of the work environment and the work that needs to be done, transformational leaders motivates their followers to focus on more meaningful goals rather than short-term ones. They empower their followers by fostering a culture of autonomy, independent thinking, self-management, and growth.
There are many similarities (.pdf) between good parenting and transformational leadership. Good parents and transformational leaders are sensitive and responsive, showing individual consideration for their "people". They reinforce their followers' autonomy in a supportive, nonjudgmental way and by actively providing opportunities, promoting relevant experiences, giving explanations, and the like. They set limitations and rules which are flexible, and act as positive examples to look up to. Lastly, they promote an environment of trust and self-efficacy.
Some parents may not think of themselves as leaders because it is hard to take a step back from the day-to-day, to shift our mindset from the details to the bigger picture. Leadership is about mobilising people toward valued goals, building trust, and inspiring them to move with you to a better future. It starts with identifying a compelling vision of a shared future, rooted in core values. Being a parent who leads means thinking and acting like a leader, both in terms of how you raise your children, and how you live your life.
Business leaders can learn a lot from good parenting practices in general and working mothers in particular. Mothers, who more often than not are the main caregivers, are great at getting things done, multitasking, and being very good with time management. Many mothers work reduced hours, and as such learn to be very time-efficient to be able to be productive. Majority of employed American agree that working mums in leadership roles bring out the best in employees, and believe that having working mums in leadership roles will make a business more successful. They describe working mothers as better listeners, calmer in crisis, more diplomatic, and better team players. The best mothers illustrate what great leadership looks like. They act as mentors, are objective in dealing with people, are trustworthy, helpful, encouraging, and responsible.
When parents and leaders provide a safe environment for their "people", show that they care, enable them to feel confidence, trust them, empower them, develop and nurture them, a culture of growth and resilience flourishes. It is time we look at the value people add to the workplace and offer more flexible work schedules, rather than just look at the number of hours people can work. And we can learn how to be better nurturing and supporting leaders from good parenting practices, especially in times where everyone could use a bit more understanding and support.
Hope you are looking after yourselves with all the lockdowns everywhere.