I am loving this book, which offers a more human path to a sustainable world. Zen wisdom provides a clear case for client-centred leadership and coaching skills for everyone.
The book cites the example of Christina Figueres, the diplomat who architected the 2015 Paris Agreement. Getting buy-in from 200 nations seemed impossible. But as an experienced mindfulness practitioner, she went to great lengths to listen to all parties while displaying her own vulnerability. Unlike tougher negotiation tactics, her mindful approach prepared the ground for people to cooperate and make things happen – because she enabled them to feel seen and heard. This is what provided the breakthrough.
To me, that is what client-centred leadership and coaching are all about.
The book provides collected writings from the late Vietnamese Zen master, Thich Nath Hanh and other contributors. Some highlights:
🌍 In our interconnected world the biggest impact we can make is through stronger relationships.
🌍 Zen wisdom rests on the concept of ‘interbeing’ across space and time. Our existence is fundamentally interconnected with everyone and everything else on the planet.
🌍 Systemic thinking is important, but not enough. A healthy planet requires us to truly feel the reality of interbeing – not just understand it intellectually. Hence the need for mindfulness.
🌍 Every action makes an impact, no matter how small. This is a natural consequence of interbeing. It’s simply a law of nature.
🌍 The quality of our actions depends on our way of being – not doing. Sometimes less is more. And if we don’t take time to just be, the quality of our actions will suffer. This is also a question of self-care. It helps no one if we burn out, or unwittingly inflict our own baggage onto others.
🌍 To make a positive impact it doesn’t matter what job we have, or what sector we work in. What matters is our way of being. If we can enjoy what we do and who we do it with, we can do good anywhere.
🚀 Zen wisdom aligns with what we know from physical and social sciences, including psychology and neuroscience. There are strong parallels with the principles of client-centred leadership and coaching. It’s simply an authentic way of being rooted in fundamental reality – which is why it works.
Curious to find out more? I work with leaders and coaches in all sectors and walks of life, through my private practice and with my friends at Client Centred Consulting and the Academy of Leadership & Management. Contact me here.
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