Now What?: Transcendent Leadership, “An Alternate Path to Move Forward During Challenging Times”

By: Dr. Ramon Pastrano

These past weeks have brought us geopolitical shocks, shifting policies, life-altering disruptions, and cataclysmic changes. The collective fear, pain, and suffering have been palpable. The experiences are real! Many are asking, "How do we move forward?" In moments like these, it is essential to pause, reflect, reframe our thoughts and choose a path that not only addresses our immediate needs but also uplifts our shared humanity.

Acknowledging Our Reality

First, let us acknowledge the fear, pain, and suffering that so many are experiencing today. We are living through turbulent times that test the resilience of our spirits and challenge the foundations of our beliefs. Yet, amidst this chaos, there lies an undeniable truth: the power to create meaningful change rests within each of us. Whether “faith” is a part of your life journey or not, no geopolitical force, no evil act, can destroy the love that fuels the human spirit. The human soul remains untouchable, and our capacity to choose what is right remains intact.

This moment calls us to ask ourselves two critical questions: In light of what we have experienced, what kind of leader do I want to be? What kind of person would I like to become? These questions invite us to embrace a transcendent form of leadership—one that rises above self-interest and focuses on the collective good.

The Call for Transcendent Leadership

Transcendent leadership is not merely about leading; it is about being. It is a way of living and leading that seeks to uplift others, align with a higher purpose, and inspire meaningful impact. It calls for courage, humility, and an unwavering commitment to righteousness. Transcendent leaders are not defined by their titles or positions but by their ability to foster compassion, collaboration, and unity.

Characteristics of Transcendent Leaders (World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, 2007)

1.???? Self-awareness: Transcendent leaders are deeply aware of themselves and others. They remain open to growth, recognizing that leadership is a journey of continual improvement. Self-awareness allows them to navigate challenges with clarity and empathy.

2.???? Purpose-driven: At the heart of transcendent leadership is a higher purpose. These leaders are motivated not by personal gain but by the desire to make a meaningful impact, whether within their organizations, communities, or the world at large.

3.???? Collaborative: Collaboration is central to transcendent leadership. These leaders empower individuals at all levels, fostering an environment of shared purpose and collective success.

4.???? Righteous: Transcendent leaders focus on righteousness—the power to transcend yourself by doing what is right, free from guilt and blame. Recognizing their own privileges, they humble themselves in such a way that other people’s needs are put ahead of their own. They are more concerned with others' well-being and align their actions with a higher power. Unlike ethics and morality, which are determined by context and can still cause harm due to the laws and rules that govern them, righteousness calls for transcending these constraints to act with true compassion and humility.

5.???? Courageous: In times of uncertainty, transcendent leaders hold steadfast to their convictions, even when faced with resistance. Their courage inspires others to act with integrity and purpose.

The Power of Transcendent Leadership

Transcendent leadership creates a culture of compassionate and highly motivated individuals. It fosters an environment where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to excel. In such cultures, teams become productive and resilient, needing minimal supervision. Moreover, transcendent leadership transforms people, inspiring devotion and dedication not to the leader, but to the shared purpose they embody.

Living the Values of Transcendent Leadership

I like to share wisdom from a biblical passage that aligns very well with the values and principles of Transcendent Leadership. A dear friend introduced me to this passage as the desired pattern for human behavior. This passage has been instrumental in shaping my life and leadership style. Here is one of my favorite interpretations: If you find encouragement in shared purpose, if you feel comfort from kindness and love, if you value connection and compassion, then let these values guide your actions. Be united in thought and action. Share a common love for humanity, act with unity of spirit, and strive for harmony in your relationships.

Approach others with humility, valuing their well-being as much as your own. Prioritize the needs of others alongside your own. Though capable of great influence, choose not to use it for personal gain. Instead, adopt a mindset of service and humility, acting in the interest of others and demonstrating resilience and commitment even in the face of challenges.

By living this way, you not only elevate yourself but contribute to a greater shared purpose. Your example becomes a beacon of hope and inspiration for others, fostering respect, collaboration, and mutual care. Through this, the values of compassion, humility, and unity are not only upheld but celebrated.

For those of you whose life journey is shaped by your faith, the passage is from Philippians 2:1-11.

The Leadership Lesson of Our Time

The most powerful leadership lesson these challenging times have taught me is this: The power to do what is right lies within each of us. It cannot be taken away. The ultimate measure of a leader is not their ability to be right but their commitment to doing the right thing. By embracing transcendent leadership, we can transform our spaces, uplift our communities, and inspire a better future for all.

So, as you reflect on these past weeks, ask yourself: What kind of leader do I want to be? The answer may just be the catalyst for the transformation we so desperately need.

In my next post, I’ll delve into practical strategies and actionable tips to help you build thriving organizational cultures and high-performing teams. We’ll explore how to foster trust, create psychological safety, and cultivate an environment where individuals and teams can excel. Whether you’re a leader, manager, or team member, these insights will empower you to strengthen your organization from the inside out. Stay tuned!