Episode 189: Storytime - Put Your Own Oxygen Mask on First
Aug 22, 2022
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This podcast explores the importance of non-anxious leadership and taking responsibility for self through the fable 'Panic' from Friedman's Fables. It discusses the domino effect, systems in series or parallel, togetherness pressure, and leading change amidst chaos in the United Methodist Church.
Leaders should prioritize their own well-being and stability, which will positively impact the entire system.
Leaders need to avoid being overwhelmed by the togetherness pressure in a series system and focus on their own emotional well-being.
Deep dives
The Domino Fable: Put on Your Own Oxygen Mask First
The fable of the dominoes is used to illustrate the importance of taking care of oneself as a leader before trying to help others. The dominoes in the story were connected in a series, and when one fell, it triggered a chain reaction that brought all the others down. The domino that remained standing explained that while others were focused on supporting their neighbors, their primary concern was to stay upright. The moral of the story is that leaders should prioritize their own well-being and stability, which will have a positive impact on the entire system.
Series vs. Parallel Systems and Surrounding Togetherness Pressure
The podcast explores the concept of series and parallel systems. In a series system, when one part of the system faces anxiety or struggles, it affects everyone else. This is similar to the domino effect in the fable. In contrast, parallel systems have multiple paths for energy or anxiety to flow, reducing the pressure on the entire system. The podcast emphasizes the importance for leaders to avoid being overwhelmed by the togetherness pressure in a series system and instead focus on their own emotional well-being. Taking responsibility for oneself enables leaders to have a non-anxious presence and positively influence the system.
The Need for Leadership and Taking a Stand
The podcast highlights the significance of leadership in creating stability and reducing anxiety in systems. Leaderless systems tend to have higher levels of anxiety, as people seek direction and guidance. It is important for leaders to take a clear position and state their beliefs, even if others may disagree. Trying to achieve consensus can lead to obstruction from a minority. The podcast also references the leadership crisis within the United Methodist Church, caused by a lack of decisive action regarding differences on human sexuality. In the midst of these challenges, non-anxious leaders who prioritize self-care and emotional connectedness are essential.