Oftentimes, we are not aware of how many decisions we are making on a day-to-day basis, or what the process involves. Sometimes we have become so accustomed to the process of making a decision that we don’t need to think twice about it. Yet, making choices is part-and-parcel of being a leader. It is usually a process that happens unconsciously. However, within the scope of being a conscious leader in the modern-day crisis that humanity currently faces, decision-making is something that has to be examined. 

In the first live discussion which forms part of the Conscious Leadership Webinar Series, held on Thursday 29th April 2021, led by Anne-marie le Roux with contributions from Melvi Todd, Dr. Marlene le Roux and Nangula Kauluma, the conversation revolved around decision making as a conscious leader.

Anne-marie mentioned that what resonated for her was something that Namibian Business-Woman of the Year, Nangula Kauluma said – which was that, as a leader, it is absolutely vital to be of service. This led Marlene to highlight that, as a leader, one needs to put aside one’s ego, to have a sense of duty and take others along with you – a point very pertinent in her role as an activist for people with disabilities.

Furthermore, as a leader, the panel reminded viewers to distinguish between what is important and what is urgent. In the light of the recent global crisis, humanity has found ourselves operating in a way in which we often aren’t fully aware of this distinction. However, with reflection, knowing what is to be prioritised and what can be put aside assists you to understand the value of certain aspects – and how to give your attention in more constructive ways.

As an entrepreneur herself, Melvi highlighted that she has been seeing more and more of a collaborative, co-creative, co-partnering mentality arising. We realise that there are people out there who bring different skills to the table that we may not have ourselves, and then when they would need our skills, we can reciprocate. As a conscious leader, this brings forth an understanding that we can leverage the diversity in our perspectives and thinking to play into our success, and become really effective as a team.

Self-care as a leader was also highlighted. Disconnecting and doing things such as mediation, yoga, going for a run, or even journaling can assist us with filling our own cups. From there, we become better overall ourselves, and can give even more back to our team, looking after them in better ways. Anne-marie mentioned how this has been a change that has come about from the impact of the pandemic – which has brought the importance of people’s overall well being into light. There is greater consciousness about people’s mental health and physical environments, and where they find themselves within the pandemic – which need to be taken into account through conscious leadership.

Indeed, as she highlighted, “It’s in reflection that we grow.” And if the last year or so has been anything to go by, it is through being conscious as leaders that we can really make a difference – not only to the success of our endeavors, but also to our team as the unique individuals that they are.

If you missed the event you can watch the replay here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVF3ll2vNj8

During the next webinar “Transformation pressure cooker” Dr Preeya Daya will lead a discussion with key contributions from industry around tougher regulations with hefty penalties and what conscious leaders do when the pressure is mounting. This will take place on Wednesday, 23 June 2021 from 09:30 – 11:00. Register online to secure your free seat at this webinar.