Nurturing Leadership is Under-Rated! Practice the Power of Holding Space for Your Team

Introduction

In our exploration of human behaviour, we've acknowledged in our previous article how unprocessed emotions can manifest as challenging behaviours. Today, let's shift our focus to an essential skill for leaders – the art of holding space. When leaders hold space, they provide their team with a supportive environment to express emotions, especially when those expressions manifest as challenging behaviours. In this article, we'll explore holding space, share real-world examples, and emphasise how integrating this skill with self-regulation lays the groundwork for resilient and supportive leadership.

Understanding Holding Space

Holding space is an active, compassionate presence leaders provide for their team as they navigate their emotional landscape. It's about creating an environment where team members feel safe expressing thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment or interruption. This practice involves being fully present, listening with empathy, and acknowledging the validity of each team member's emotional journey.

Real-World Examples of Holding Space

Scenario 1: Team Member's Frustration

In a team setting, a member may display frustration or irritation during a meeting. Holding space means resisting the urge to react defensively or take their behaviour personally. Instead, leaders can approach them later, expressing a desire to understand their perspective. By actively listening and empathising without immediately offering solutions or criticism, leaders create an open space for team members to share concerns and feelings.

Scenario 2: Collaborator's Anxieties

A collaborator is grappling with anxiety about an upcoming project. Holding space involves lending a listening ear without attempting to downplay or solve their worries immediately. Simultaneously, leaders practice self-regulation by managing any personal fears or anxieties triggered by their collaborator's disclosure. This creates an environment where both individuals can express themselves openly without judgment.

Combining Holding Space with Self-Regulation

While holding space for team members is crucial, leaders must also regulate their own emotions in the process. This involves managing reactions and creating a safe space without adding personal emotional baggage to the mix. Let's explore how this combination works through examples:

Scenario 1: Team's Challenges

The team faces challenges that create stress and tension. Holding space involves acknowledging the team's emotions without immediately imposing solutions. Simultaneously, leaders practice self-regulation by managing their potential frustration or anxiety, fostering an environment where team members can openly express themselves.

Scenario 2: Celebrating Success

After achieving a significant milestone, team members may express excitement and joy. Holding space means allowing space for celebration without rushing to the next task. Leaders regulate their own potential overwhelm or impatience, ensuring the team can fully embrace the positive emotions associated with their success.

Practical Tips for Holding Space

Active Listening: Leaders should practice active listening by focusing on the speaker, making eye contact, and nodding to show understanding. Avoid interrupting or offering immediate solutions. Empathy: Put yourself in your team's shoes, acknowledging their emotions and validating their experiences. Avoid dismissing or belittling their feelings. Non-Verbal Cues: Use non-verbal cues like body language and facial expressions to convey empathy and understanding. A supportive gesture or a reassuring nod communicates leadership support. Resist Judgment: Avoid passing judgment on your team's emotions or reactions. Everyone's emotional experience is valid, even if it differs from your own.

Conclusion

Holding space is a powerful tool for nurturing healthy, supportive leadership. By combining this skill with self-regulation, leaders create environments where both their emotions and those of their team can be expressed authentically. As leaders continue to navigate the intricate tapestry of human relationships, let's embrace the art of holding space – a practice that cultivates empathy, understanding, and resilience in our leadership connections.

To deepen your understanding of holding space, check out episode 50 of the Re-MIND Podcast, where we delve even deeper. If you're looking to enhance your leadership skills further, our Rise and Thrive program equips and empowers leaders to not only self-regulate but also to learn how to hold space for their teams in a transformative way. Expressions of Interest are open - reserve your spot today!