Nothing is as powerful as an idea whose time has come.
— Victor Hugo
An innovative experiential program for new professionals and emerging leaders
The six-month introductory Wisdom Leader Program takes the first steps to address gaps and opportunities that exist within the current business environment. In particular, it prepares emerging leaders to successfully transition into business environments that are uncertain, changing, and volatile, and actively engage in sustainable business practices and organizations.
Through introspection, unique experiential exercises, and productive interactions with other participants and faculty, graduates of this program will develop foundational leader core competencies and become invaluable resources for employers. Through continual practice, Wisdom Leaders develop self- and other-awareness, become adept at engaging in generative conversations, and adopt an “everyone wins” approach to problem solving.
Embodying a growth mindset, they accept challenges and are strategic and solution-focused. By developing inclusive and strategic decision-making, our graduates are better able to consider multiple outcomes and consequences for all stakeholders.
Organizations grow and thrive when they support and train their future leaders — those young adults who are ready to develop the quality of Wisdom. Based on our research and experience teaching and training Wisdom Leaders — and embodying these competencies ourselves — we have created an exciting and impactful program which will inspire your emerging Wisdom Leaders to:
- Connect more deeply to the mission of the organization
- Become catalysts to support that mission
- Intentionally develop and contribute their talents and gifts in ways that will take the organization into the future
1
Mindful self-awareness
The mindful self-aware person has a presence that positively impacts how they show up at work. Coming to know oneself clearly and honestly, being in command of one’s energies and bringing a deep appreciation into every experience are qualities that Wisdom Leaders begin to develop on the first day of the program, and continue to hone throughout.
2
Embodiment of core values
Cultivating a relationship with one’s values and principles creates a strong inner personal foundation that promotes positive growth and change. Emerging Wisdom Leaders
intentionally create space in their lives to allow and invite their values to unfold and mature. Nurturing a relationship with one’s values and principles allows ready
access and application in daily work life.
3
Skillful will for productive collaboration
Having Will is important to be successful in the world. However, too often Will is applied too weakly or forcibly and can be misinterpreted. Wisdom Leaders learn “Skillful
Will” — the delicate balance between standing up for oneself and one’s values, while creatively and collaboratively engaging with others’ Wills, in service to the best outcomes.
4
Whole-brain perspective-taking & decision-making
Wisdom Leaders combine the strengths of the analytical brain — focus, logic, and details — with the intuitive brain which takes in the whole picture and sparks insight and innovative approaches. Using a whole-brain approach to problem solving, decision making, and planning enables Wisdom Leader craft sound and sustainable decisions, be creative, and see new possibilities — all of which positively impact organizational performance.
5
Mature action in
uncertain & turbulent
circumstances
Wisdom leaders neither collapse nor become rigid in the face of quickly shifting conditions. This competency is not natural for most people, yet is trainable. It requires the cultivation of a kind of inner flexibility – beyond just “bounce back resilience.” It gives rise to an adaptive, regenerative capacity to engage the positive elements and opportunities for growth in any challenge.
