The Compassionate Leader

The word ‘compassion’ can be defined as the virtue of empathy for the suffering of others.

It is, however, a word not often heard in the corporate world.

Like the word ‘feelings’, the use of the word ‘compassion’ is often relegated to ‘touchy-feely’ land.

We are more comfortable with concepts (and words) such as results, action, logic, profits and outcomes…but simply not naming something does not mean it does not (or should not) exist.

Tenzin Gyatso; The Fourteenth Dalai Lama, is widely recognised as one of the world’s greatest spiritual leaders.

He says the purpose of life is happiness, which is only possible with compassion, and:

“I believe each human being has the potential to change, to transform one’s own attitude, no matter how difficult the situation.”

Practicing kindness and compassion may have no place in the business world, according to some, but I disagree.

I believe compassion and profits are not mutually exclusive but practicing compassion can actually lead to greater profits and better results for organizations, particularly if it becomes entwined in its culture.

Consider the company who went well above and beyond contractual obligations for the employee who had cancer.

Consider the US venture firm that donates half it’s profits up front to philanthropic causes.

Consider the manager who demonstrated a truly compassionate attitude during the restructuring of his division.

My challenge to you is this:

What would happen if we practiced more compassion in our business dealings? With our suppliers?  With our customers?  With our teams?  With ourselves?

Like the concept of trust, what rewards could you reap in business by showing compassion?

Here is a clip featuring Chade-Meng Tan, talking about everyday compassion at Google – when you have 15 minutes I highly recommend watching it.

Takeaway:

What ways could you or your organization start demonstrating more compassion?

What are your own attitudes towards compassion in the business world?

What are you afraid might happen if you were to be more compassionate in your daily interactions with others?

What small gesture of compassion could you make today at work?

– Suzi