Episode 173: Five Science Insights that Show Why Leadership through Self-Differentiation Works
May 2, 2022
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Explore the benefits of leadership through self-differentiation with five evidence-based insights from behavioral science. Discover the power of creating emotional space and allowing freedom of choice, simplifying processes, and being a non-anxious presence. Understand the importance of genuine care for others and the ripple effect of authentic influence.
Creating emotional space and giving people the freedom to choose to follow is an effective means of leading.
Understanding that our brains have two thinking systems, FAST and SLOW, can help us regulate our reactions and promote rational thinking.
Deep dives
Leadership is about vision and influence
A leader's responsibility is to think about the future and develop a vision for the team they lead. This requires discerning where they believe God is calling them and their organization. Even if you're not the head of an organization, if you lead a specific area or department, your role is to align it with the mission of the organization. Leadership is about vision and influence, with influence being more art than science. Creating emotional space and giving people the freedom to choose to follow is an effective means of leading.
Influencing others through self-differentiation
Creating emotional space allows people to choose their own path and prevents conflicts. By giving them this freedom, they may actually feel pressure to follow from within, which is a positive response. Understanding that our brains have two thinking systems, FAST and SLOW, can help us regulate our reactions and promote rational thinking. Providing emotional space and time for people to think logically is more influential than pushing for immediate decisions. Asking questions and avoiding arguments or agreements can maintain a non-conflicting atmosphere.
Making things easy and being emotionally connected
Making tasks easy for people increases the likelihood of behavior change. For example, automatic 401k enrollment increases retirement savings. Being a non-anxious presence and emotionally connected to others creates a supportive environment. Showing genuine curiosity and asking questions demonstrate interest and establish emotional connections. It is essential to care about individuals without taking responsibility for their functioning. Authentic, lasting influence is a collective effort, highlighting the interdependent web of human connections.