Why Developing Conscious Leaders is Crucial for Your Organisation

Introduction to Conscious Leadership

At the BRC Leaders Summer School, conscious leadership takes center stage. This innovative programme, co-designed by facilitator, coach, and activist Rob Husband, aims to equip leaders with the essential skills and attributes to lead with awareness, wisdom, courage and authenticity. In this blog, we will explore the key themes, notable speakers, and transformative activities that make this programme a must-attend for aspiring conscious leaders in the retail industry.

Notable Speakers and Themes

The summer school features a lineup of distinguished speakers who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. At the start of the school Rob introduces conscious leadership and the theme is then carried through the school by distinguished and experienced contributors: Among them Paul Anderson-Walsh from Enolla Consulting, Erinch Sahan from DEAL, Evelina Dzimanaviciute from Elite Minds, and Alicia Carey from Hawkwood College.

• Paul: Focuses on how we can elevate the human experience within the retail sector
• Erinch: Introduces an alternative view of profit and economics,
• doughnut economics
• Evelina: Takes us on a journey into purpose examining what drives leaders and motivates their actions.
• Alicia: Reminds us of the interconnectedness of humans and the planet and advocates for eco-centric leadership.

Core Principles of Conscious Leadership

Rob highlights the essence of conscious leadership as deep self-awareness and understanding one's behaviour within the context they lead. He distinguishes between horizontal skill development—learning specific skills—and vertical development, which focuses on gaining wisdom and awareness. Conscious leadership primarily emphasises vertical development, stressing the importance of reflecting on personal and cultural stories that shape leadership.

Skills and Attributes for Conscious Leaders

In the retail industry, essential skills for conscious leaders include:

• Taking the long view of benefits and consequences for customers, society and the planet rather than focusing solely on short-term returns.
• Embracing different perspectives and being open to various ways of doing things.
• Taking the time to slow down, reflect, and make thoughtful decisions in a fast-paced world.
• Being genuine and courageous in leadership roles.

Transformative Activities and Workshops

The summer school is designed to provide a holistic learning experience through a variety of activities and workshops that foster self-awareness and conscious leadership skills.

• Reflective Activities: immersive exercises to help participants understand themselves better as leaders.
• On demand content: A series of short videos introducing specific aspects of conscious leadership models, accessed throughout the virtual bridge.
• Outdoor Coaching: Utilising outdoor spaces and an outdoor coach to encourage different ways of reflection and self-awareness.

Introduction to the Five Lenses of Leadership

The programme incorporates four lenses to help participants view their leadership from different perspectives and understand the interconnectedness of these aspects:

• Conscious Leadership: Focusing on self-awareness and understanding one's behaviour and the context within which they lead
• Planet: Emphasising eco-centric leadership and the interconnectedness of humans and the planet.
• Purpose: Exploring what drives leaders and motivates their actions.
• Profit: Balancing profit with considerations for sustainable and responsible leadership.
• People: Elevating the human experience

Conclusion: The Impact of Conscious Leadership

The BRC Leaders Summer School emphasises the transformative power of conscious leadership. By fostering self-awareness, understanding the broader context, and making decisions for the benefit of all, conscious leaders can significantly impact both their professional and personal lives. As Rob envisions, a world where leaders are more aware and deliberate in their actions is one where meaningful conversations and better decision-making prevail.