Leadership: Kindness > Fear

In the constantly changing topic of leadership, the approach one chooses can be a crucial factor in the success and well-being of an organization. While fear may seem like a logical force, and a method most used, there is a compelling case for why leading with kindness is greater than fear.?

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Kindness creates a positive and inclusive work environment. By using kindness as the driver, leaders can set the tone to have a culture that values collaboration, empathy, and mutual support. Employees are more likely to feel appreciated, understood, and motivated, leading to increased job satisfaction and engagement.

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Just as important, kindness creates trust. A leader who consistently operates with kindness builds a foundation of trust. Trust is such a vital element in any organizational setting because it leads to open communication. When you take a deep dive in fear, you see that it may yield compliance in the short term, but it takes away trust over time, creating a fragile and tense atmosphere.

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I believe that leading with kindness also helps with resilience and innovation. When people feel supported and valued, they are more likely to embrace challenges with a positive mindset. It encourages a culture where mistakes are viewed as opportunities to learn and grow pushing an organization forward.

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Today, mental health and individual well-being are important factors that no organization can simply overlook. By leading with kindness, it contributes to the overall mental and emotional health of their team. The workplace becomes a space where individuals feel seen, heard, and appreciated, reducing stress and burnout.

On the flip side, I have seen leaders that managed based on fear, have detrimental effects on both individuals and the organization. The stress caused in this environment normally leads to decreased productivity, creativity, and overall job satisfaction. The long-term consequences may include high turnover rates and a toxic organizational culture.

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I truly believe that the impact of leading with kindness can be felt in employee morale, team dynamics, and the overall success of the organization. As leaders, we must rid ourselves of the fact that leading with kindness is a sign of weakness.? It is not. It is a demonstration of strength and wisdom. The business world can often be demanding and challenging, choosing to lead with kindness can produce positive impact on individuals and the collective success of the team.? In simple math, kindness is greater than fear.