This blog is about the basics of existential leadership. The approach emphasises individual freedom, responsibility and authenticity as core elements of modern leadership. We show how this leadership style strengthens managers' self-reflection, promotes their authenticity and helps them to offer their teams meaning and direction. In a constantly changing world of work, existential leadership is a model that ensures both economic success and personal fulfilment.
Existential leadership as a response to new working environments
At a time when the world of work is changing rapidly and traditional management approaches are often reaching their limits, a concept that is deeply rooted in the understanding of human existence is coming to the fore: existential leadership. But what exactly is behind this approach and why is it so relevant today?
Existential leadership is based on philosophical principles that place people in their entirety at the centre. Unlike traditional leadership concepts, which are often based on external measures of success, this approach demands that leadership comes from within. Existential leadership emphasises the importance of authenticity, individual freedom and responsibility in leadership.
Self-reflection as a starting point
The key to existential leadership lies in self-reflection. Managers are called upon to scrutinise and clearly define their own values, beliefs and goals. Only those who know themselves well and are at peace with themselves can lead authentically. Authenticity is a key element as it creates trust and enables genuine connections to be made with employees. Leadership that is based on genuine values has an inspiring and motivating effect - both for the manager and for the team.
Freedom and responsibility
Another key element is the balance between freedom and responsibility. Existential leadership recognises that managers and employees have the freedom to make decisions. However, with this freedom comes immense responsibility - both for their own actions and for the bigger picture. Managers must not only lead themselves, but also take responsibility for the people and processes around them.
Creating meaning as a leadership task
In a working world in which more and more people are looking for meaning and fulfilment in their work, creating meaning plays a central role. Existential leadership offers leaders the tools to help their employees recognise the meaning in their work. It is about creating a connection between the individual values of employees and the goals of the organisation. Leaders who live this approach create an environment in which employees can realise their potential and remain motivated at the same time.
Dealing with uncertainty
An often underestimated aspect of leadership is dealing with uncertainty. Existential leadership recognises that life and work are full of uncertainties and fears. Instead of ignoring or suppressing these, they are addressed openly. Managers learn to live with uncertainty and accept it as a natural part of decision-making processes. This openness strengthens the resilience of teams and helps them to react calmly in times of crisis.
Interpersonal relationships
Finally, existential leadership emphasises the importance of interpersonal relationships. A manager who works according to this approach sees their employees not just as workers, but as individuals with their own needs and desires. This genuine connection creates trust and strengthens team spirit - a key success factor in an increasingly networked working world.
Conclusion
Existential leadership is more than just another leadership approach. It offers a profound, people-centred framework that is crucial for both the personal and professional development of leaders and their teams. At a time when authenticity, freedom and a sense of purpose are becoming increasingly important, existential leadership offers an answer to the challenges of modern leadership.
Mindtrain is your partner when it comes to existential leadership
We accompany you as a personality and as a company / organisation through the entire process of introducing existential leadership in your environment
Creation and documentation of the leadership vision
Formulation of the leadership principles
Development of the implementation strategy
Existential leadership training
Executive mentoring / coaching
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