ReThinking Jacinda Ardern on leading with empathy and overcoming self-doubt
10 snips
Jul 1, 2025 
Jacinda Ardern, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, shares her insights on empathetic leadership and the challenges of self-doubt. She discusses her unexpected entry into politics and how compassion shaped her responses during crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Ardern reflects on overcoming 'tall poppy syndrome' and the importance of kindness in leadership. The conversation also touches on navigating personal milestones amidst public scrutiny and the integral role of resilience and optimism in inspiring change.
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Leadership Embraces Sensitivity
- Jacinda Ardern dedicated her book to those who feel they must hide their sensitivity to fit leadership roles.
- She embraces traits like crying and worrying as compatible with leadership, breaking leadership stereotypes.
Doubt as Leadership Tool
- Doubt is a spectrum from debilitating imposter syndrome to motivating questions about capability.
- Healthy self-doubt can drive preparation and consulting experts, enhancing leadership effectiveness.
Leadership Born from Responsibility
- Jacinda became Prime Minister out of responsibility, not ambition, amidst polling struggles and her leader's withdrawal.
- She overcame self-doubt by focusing on duty, letting responsibility outweigh personal confidence gaps.
