Mindful leadership is what transformed my startup when we faced a crisis. Here are three key leadership qualities that played a vital role: identifying and breaking destructive patterns, distancing ego from self, and embracing a purpose-driven approach to lead with resilience and impact.
A couple of years ago, I found myself in a dark place. My business was floundering, the world seemed to be in turmoil, and I was at a loss for how to support both myself and my team. Instead of succumbing to despair, I decided to focus inward. I sought therapy, worked with a coach, and immersed myself in self-help literature.
It dawned on me that the survival of my startup rested entirely on my shoulders. So, I dedicated myself to developing mindful leadership.
The result? My startup didn’t just survive—it flourished. We launched new products, achieved impressive metrics, and secured investments.
If you’re a founder facing turbulent times, don’t rush to give up, lay off your team, or shut down your business. Start by working on yourself. Here are three mindful leadership qualities that can help you navigate through crises:
1. Recognize Destructive Patterns and Rewrite the Script
Many of us carry patterns from our past into our professional lives. For example, if you were always praised for being a top student, you might have developed the belief, “I need to be the best to be valued.” I experienced this myself.
In brainstorming sessions, I noticed that I became anxious and defensive when my ideas weren’t immediately celebrated. Constructive criticism felt like a personal attack, which led to unproductive discussions, wasted energy on conflicts, and a toxic environment that stifled creativity.
By reading “Reinventing Your Life,” I became aware of this pattern and learned how to change it. Now, I’m comfortable with criticism. I’ve adopted a new habit: I speak last in discussions. This allows me to listen fully to my team, evaluate ideas objectively, and create a more collaborative environment.
Another pattern to watch out for is the fear that your team might leave you. If this anxiety constantly nags at you, it could stem from an “anxious attachment” pattern. Ironically, if you don’t address this, your fear might become a self-fulfilling prophecy, pushing your team away with your suspicion.
2. Separate Yourself from Your Ego
Your ego is that inner voice that insists it knows best, often leading you astray. It can make you believe false narratives, like equating your self-worth with constant praise.
Here’s how this plays out at work: Imagine you’re interviewing someone who excels in areas where you’re less knowledgeable. If your ego is in control, you might see this person as a threat rather than an asset, leading to poor hiring decisions.
Your ego also influences how you perceive setbacks. When business results dip, your ego might convince you that you’re a failure, even though others might see it as an opportunity for growth.
I encountered my ego during a period of depression, trying various practices like ice baths. My rational mind knew these activities were beneficial, but my ego whispered, “Stay in bed, it’s safer.” Recognizing this voice as my ego was the first step in not letting it dictate my actions.
Wondering how much your ego controls you? I found clarity in the book “A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose.” It helped me understand the ego’s role and how to manage it.
Unchecked egos can wreak havoc on founders, sometimes leading to disastrous business decisions. I once knew a founder who, driven by a big ego, constantly compared his company to others. This led him to break rules in a race to be first, rather than focusing on building a sustainable business with real impact.
3. Discover Your Inner Drive
Psychology tells us there are two main drivers behind our actions. The first is the pleasure drive, where you seek rewards and recognition. The second is the aggressive drive, where you aim to outdo others and win at all costs.
However, there’s a third, more powerful driver that defines great leadership: the generative drive. Leaders with this drive are curious, constantly seeking to grow and improve the world around them.
Consider leaders who focus on more than just profits. They invest in projects that may not bring immediate returns but have a significant impact on society. They lead with humility and a vision of making a difference, focusing on how their work can contribute to the greater good.
When you understand what truly drives you, especially if it’s the generative drive, you can lead your business with purpose, aiming not just for profit but for a positive impact on the world.
Nothing provides better insight into your actions than honest feedback. Surround yourself with people who will tell you the truth, and be open to their perspectives. Most importantly, be honest with yourself about what drives you.
Conclusion
In turbulent times, the strength of your business is a direct reflection of your strength as a leader. By recognizing destructive patterns, managing your ego, and leading with a generative drive, you can not only navigate crises but also emerge stronger and more resilient.
About the Author : Harry (Hemant Kaushik), Elite Global Advisor & Business Consultant
Harry (Hemant Kaushik) is an American global advisor and business consultant, renowned for his strategic insights and high-impact consultancy. He specializes in advising and coaching elite individuals, including business tycoons, world leaders, and top corporate leaders. His expertise has been sought by Presidents, Prime Ministers, influential politicians, CEOs, and industry leaders worldwide.
Recognized as one of the Top 10 Global Advisors and Business Consultants by PWC International, Harry has transformed the lives of thousands across more than 100 countries with his unparalleled guidance. He has also been honored as one of the Top 10 Life and Business Strategists, shaping the success of global business leaders and visionaries.
Harry’s influence has earned him prestigious accolades, including recognition by the CEO Times Magazine as one of the 10 Most Powerful People in Global Business Consulting, Business Times News as a Top 10 Business Consultant, and Business Weekly Times as one of the Top 10 Business Advisors in the World, offering consulting services to billionaires, celebrities, and high-net-worth individuals.
A Wall Street Times cover story famously dubbed him the “Elite Global Advisor & Business Consultant” for his deep understanding of business dynamics and leadership strategies. Based in San Francisco, United States, Harry is widely respected for his international economic expertise, market analysis, and strategic business acumen. His collaborations with global brands and corporations have positioned him as a thought leader, contributing to the business world through insightful articles on global economic trends.
Learn more: https://ceosadvisory.com
