When we consider the qualities needed in a successful business leader, commonly valued characteristics include adaptability, flexibility, integrity, decisiveness, vision, communication skills and strategic thinking, but one vital aspect of sustainable leadership that we don’t talk about enough is courage. In the ever-changing times we live in, economically, socially and environmentally, we need a different kind of leadership – one that makes a positive contribution that counts today and lasts into the future. And we need to recruit leaders with courage to make the changes required to drive us towards a sustainable future.
The global situation of VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity) we find ourselves in, calls for bold action and a willingness to take risks for the greater good and adapt to ever-changing conditions, be them environmental, social or economic. The actions leaders take now will determine how the world looks to future generations.
A courageous sustainable leader has the confidence to challenge the status quo, they challenge established norms and practices that prioritise short-term gains over long term sustainability. We need to question existing systems and processes, even if it means facing resistance within our organisations or industries. An effective sustainable leader has the courage to take calculated risks to drive these positive changes, through implementation of new, innovative solutions, investment in new and renewable technologies or adopting sustainable business practices. These decisions may carry risk that others oppose, or require upfront costs or disrupt traditional business models, but having the courage to drive these changes is essential to sustainability.
With change often comes resistance, from various stakeholders who may raise concerns regarding profitability or convenience. It takes courage to navigate these challenges, communicating the benefits of sustainability and address concerns, while staying focused on long-term goals. Sustainable leaders need to be advocates for sustainability in their industries, communities and beyond, speaking up on environmental or social issues, engaging in public discourse and influencing policy decisions. Courage is needed to speak out and take a stand on issues that may be controversial or unpopular.
Achieving sustainability goals often requires persistence and resilience in the face of setbacks, obstacles, and criticism. Sustainable leaders need the courage to stay committed to their vision, learn from failures, and continue pushing for change, even when progress is slow or difficult. It is through these courageous actions that sustainable leaders can drive meaningful and lasting positive impact.
Courageous leaders think and act with the greater good in mind, they are generous, seek fairness and act with respect and integrity, they stand up for “what is right”. They are neither naïve nor reckless. They are aware that innovation involves risk, but resisting the majority opinion or the safe option and daring to think differently is a courage we need more of. To be courageous is to actively decide to act, to resist, to challenge the status quo, spark creativity and stand up for the right values.
At Sherrington Associates, we recognise how essential sustainable leadership is to the success of an organisation. We use our 4A Model as a framework for assessing leadership candidates throughout the recruitment process. This helps us understand the candidate’s potential for developing a lasting culture of sustainable leadership.
To learn more about our services, talk to our team…
Culture Diagnostics & Values Assessments
Sustainable Leadership Consulting
