We live in a world of volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity (VUCA), where the disparate needs of individuals, communities and society are at times in conflict. At the same time, leaders and their followers are increasingly searching for meaning in the workplace. Many seek models of leadership that are more articulate and quiet; that link to the self and humanity; that bring meaning and creativity; that are comfortable with ambiguity. Yet we continue to work in environments that prioritise self-sufficiency and fast results; that reward directive styles of leadership. Many would argue that there is a widening gulf between what people want from their leaders, and what traditional modes of leadership succession and management development deliver.
As a poet, a leader, and now a leadership development practitioner, I have been struck for some time by the common ground of poetry and leadership. Poetry deals in the currencies of passion and truth; its language is open and non-directive. Poetry connects emotionally whilst allowing us the freedom to make our own interpretations. It provides a space for reflection. These are vital skills for engaging with others in a noisy and complex world.
As William Carlos Williams suggests, a poem is “a field of action”, knotting together knowing and doing. The music of poetry can wake up our senses. It can develop our lateral thinking capabilities, and may help us to manage better in ambiguity and uncertainty. Poetry sits with not knowing. Leadership with these qualities can build resilience in a VUCA world.
There is a plethora of authoritative advice about how one should lead, and a multitude of definitions of leadership. My personal experience, and coaching work tells me that to be of value to the newly aspiring or the seasoned leader, descriptions of leadership must help them to identify not only what to do but also how they might enact and embody leadership. I have developed the idea of poetic leadership - a way of leading that is beautiful, intelligent, complex, subtle, and engaging - as a way of seeing leadership that can guide me, and I hope others, through our quotidian choices. It speaks to the kind of person thinks in models and metaphors rather than ‘how to’s’.
My forthcoming book, Rhyme and Reason - The Poetry of Leadership, looks at leadership using the building blocks of poetry, including metaphor, language, rhythm, rhyme, story, lateral thinking and emotional connection. It explores specific leadership challenges, such as dealing with ambiguity and fostering innovation, and looks at what a poetic approach might offer. It also includes numerous examples of poetry.
My hope is that this way of seeing leadership helps people to find a deeper connection with who and how they are as leaders, and supports them in taking the kinds of actions that will make their organisation and the world a better place.
I am still looking for a few examples to use in the book - both of inspiring poetry, and of leadership stories. If you have something to share I’d love to hear from you via sam@differentdevelopment.com
