Leadership is everywhere. I see it in action daily when working with teams and organizations. I witness courage, resilience, adaptability, fear, disappointment, concern, joy, excitement, anger, frustration, happiness, and pride – all encapsulating the emotional experience of leading. These emotions reflect leaders’ responses to their contexts, situations, teams, and their capability to navigate both prosperity and adversity. 

In today’s world, marked by volatility, cruelty, and uncertainty, we need specific types of leaders. 

We need leaders who embody qualities and approaches capable of addressing the complexities of local and global challenges. I see these qualities in action every day, and my hope is that such leadership becomes the norm in our most senior leadership roles – governing countries, shaping policy, and driving progress in both public and private sectors. 

The Kinds of Leaders the World Needs More of, Especially Now 

1. Empathetic Leaders 

Why: In a world rich with social, cultural, and workplace diversity, empathy enables leaders to understand and address the needs of their teams and communities. 

How: They foster inclusion, build trust, and create psychologically safe environments where individuals feel valued and supported. 

2. Adaptive Leaders 

Why: Rapid technological advancements, economic shifts, and global uncertainties require leaders who can navigate ambiguity and pivot effectively. 

How: They demonstrate flexibility, learn quickly, and encourage innovation to address ever-changing circumstances. 

3. Ethical Leaders 

Why: With declining public trust in institutions and politics, ethical decision-making has become a cornerstone of leadership. 

How: Ethical leaders prioritize integrity, transparency, and accountability in their actions and policies. 

4. Collaborative Leaders 

Why: Complex global problems such as political instability, climate change, inequality, and health crises demand cross-sector collaboration. 

How: They break silos, foster partnerships, and harness collective intelligence to create sustainable solutions. 

5. Visionary Leaders 

Why: Visionary leaders inspire action by presenting compelling futures and rallying people toward common goals. 

How: They articulate clear, purpose-driven visions while aligning efforts to achieve long-term impact. 

6. Resilient Leaders 

Why: Increasingly volatile conditions require leaders who remain steadfast and guide their teams through adversity. 

How: They model emotional regulation, foster optimism, and build environments that support collective resilience. 

7. Inclusive Leaders 

Why: Diversity drives innovation, and inclusive leadership ensures all voices are heard and valued. 

How: Inclusive leaders amplify underrepresented perspectives, leading to richer discussions and better outcomes. 

8. Purpose-Driven Leaders 

Why: Employees and stakeholders increasingly seek alignment with organizations and leaders who stand for more than profits. 

How: Purpose-driven leaders embed values like sustainability, equity, and community well-being into their strategies. 

9. Coach-Like Leaders 

Why: Traditional top-down leadership styles are less effective in today’s decentralized and empowered workplaces. 

How: They guide rather than direct, empowering teams to develop skills, autonomy, and confidence. 

10. Globally Minded Leaders 

Why: Interconnected global challenges require leaders who understand and respect diverse cultures and global dynamics. 

How: They cultivate cultural intelligence, embrace different perspectives, and advocate for globally relevant solutions. 

I am privileged to witness these types of leaders daily. Yet, when I look globally and even locally, I feel saddened by the prevalence of leadership marked by cruelty, hatred, a lack of empathy, and power at any cost – even at the expense of life itself. 

While we cannot always control external circumstances, we can choose how we lead. 

Now, more than ever, we need leaders who meet the world’s most pressing needs with compassion, innovation, and integrity.

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