Embracing the Role of a Wise Elder in Leadership

If you're a senior leader transitioning from an operational role, insights into becoming a wise elder might be just what you need.

The heroic leader archetype has been glorified for too long, often leaving us, and our organisations, sluggish and inflexible. This model paints a picture of a powerful, charismatic figure leading from the front, with a focus on individual success and control. Think of leaders like Thomas Edison, Steve Jobs, and Richard Branson. While inspiring, this approach relies heavily on a single point of failure, which can lead to significant issues.

Amanda Sinclair, Professor of Management, Diversity, and Change at Melbourne University, critiques this traditional view, highlighting the immense pressure it places on leaders. Her analysis reveals a toxic narrative where leaders are expected to perform decisive, heroic acts even in uncertain circumstances, often bearing an undue load that leads to burnout and stifles organisational growth.

Here are five major problems with the heroic leader model:

1. Dependency and Lack of Empowerment: It creates a reliance on the leader, stunting team growth and innovation.
2. Burnout and Unsustainability: The constant pressure to perform is unsustainable, risking burnout for the leader.
3. Limited Perspective: A single-focused leadership limits diverse input, hindering creativity and adaptability.
4. Resistance to Change: Heroic leaders may resist change, tied to their established methods and personal success.
5. Succession Challenges: Over-reliance on one leader complicates succession planning, with no clear path for future leaders.

In "The Power of Giving Away Power," Matthew Barzun emphasizes that true power in leadership comes from empowering others rather than holding onto authority, echoing Sinclair's views on the limitations of traditional leadership. He argues that by sharing power, leaders can cultivate a more collaborative and innovative environment. This approach encourages diverse input and fosters a sense of ownership among team members, ultimately leading to greater organizational success and resilience. Barzun's perspective challenges the traditional heroic leader archetype and highlights the value of distributed leadership.

Joseph Campbell's "The Hero with a Thousand Faces" portrays the hero not as a powerholder but as someone who gains wisdom through trials and returns transformed, benefitting the community. This aligns with the wise elder's role, shifting focus from individual prowess to collective growth.

In cultures like Native American and Celtic communities, wise elders are revered for their wisdom and experience. They guide decision-making, mentor younger generations, and ensure the continuity of cultural values, strengthening the community's resilience over time.

If you're stepping into a wise elder role in your organisation, expect a shift in focus towards:

1. Deep Wisdom and Experience: Provide strategic insights and help avoid past mistakes.
2. Mentorship and Development: Foster talent development and ensure long-term success through succession planning.
3. Cultural Continuity: Preserve and promote organisational values to maintain a cohesive culture.
4. Balanced Decision-Making: Encourage diverse perspectives for well-rounded decisions.
5. Conflict Mediation and Resolution: Use your experience to mediate disputes and foster collaboration.

Are you ready to transform your leadership journey and embrace the role of a wise elder?

We’d love to hear your experiences and insights.

Connect with us today to explore how you can foster empowerment and growth within your organisation.

Reach out via our contact page or join our community discussions on LinkedIn to continue the conversation. Let’s build a future where leadership is about collective success and shared wisdom.

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High Performing Management - Woodward Consulting

Influencing change - Woodward Consulting