Our businesses and communities, just like life, experience ups and downs. And yet, out of challenges and even tragedies, there are opportunities, if we only choose to pay attention, truly see them and learn.
During the days of calamity and heartbreak Pittsburgh experienced with the deadliest attack on Jews in American history in October last year, we also experienced many examples of outstanding leadership by local and state government offices, emergency medical teams and health care workers, law enforcement, community and religious leaders, neighbors and countless other individuals and groups, young and old.
What these people had in common was a keen sense of doing the right things, taking care of others and seeing everyone around them as a part of their community’s family tree. We can all learn from these models — all we have to do is “Lead with L-O-V-E.”
- L – Lead from the heart as well as the mind. Letting our hearts be our guides is informative. This is the gut-check of whether or not a decision is on the side of right. A true decision will feel correct rationally and emotionally, particularly if others are involved or are affected by a leadership decision that must be made.
- O – Be objective and observant. Correct leadership is never selfish. Rather, true leadership decisions take the greater good into account. Furthermore, the wise leader will have a keen understanding of potential outcomes on his or her constituents. By remaining impartial and attentive, leaders can assess the options available and make the very best choices for all concerned.
- V – Lead with veracity in every word and deed. Truth breeds trust and credibility. These are vital qualities to cultivate for any leader who wishes to be followed. And, for leaders who are charged with developing the next generation of leaders, success can only be achieved if there is confidence and integrity in the leadership being demonstrated.
- E – Reward excellence without prejudice. There is no room for favoritism or discrimination where true leadership is concerned. Consistent with objectivity and credibility, exceptional leaders recognize the accomplishments of others with a selfless grace.
Too often, we only make the connection between leadership and love when something goes wrong or in the face of tragedy. This doesn’t need to be the case. We can weave L-O-V-E into leadership every day by using these very simple practices.
Such was the case that fateful October day and the days that followed the massacre at the Tree of Life. There were many who stepped up and led with love. Let us be grateful to them and remember to follow their model, whether the waters are calm or stormy.
On April 17, Leadership Pittsburgh invites the community to gather around self-organized tables of eight to 10 to break bread and engage in conversations that can make our community stronger.
Aradhna M. Oliphant is the president and CEO of Leadership Pittsburgh Inc. LPI strengthens regional leadership by connecting current and emerging leaders and high-potential veterans with each other and with people and issues that shape communities. Under her leadership, demand for LPI programs has grown exponentially. A graduate of LPI, Aradhna is deeply committed to the region including through service on boards and commissions. She is invited frequently to speak and write on leadership.
