Core Concept
Compassion

Cultivating a compassionate attitude is a lifelong leadership practice that ensures our response is one of courageous kindness, especially in tough times. Compassion, meaning “to suffer together,” arises when we experience suffering and feel motivated to relieve it. Self-compassion, treating ourselves with the same kindness we offer others, is crucial for sustainable broad compassion, enabling genuine care for a wider community.

Cultivating Compassion

A compassionate stance involves open awareness, empathy, kindness, and acceptance of common humanity, recognizing shared experiences of pain and discomfort. Unlike empathy, compassion actively addresses problems and conflicts. Despite societal norms often viewing compassion as weakness, especially where bias and mistrust exist, cultivating compassion daily is crucial. Research indicates compassion is a natural human instinct that, like muscle, can be strengthened through practice, becoming an integral part of our way of being.

Nurturing Self-Compassion

Self-compassion involves recognizing our own suffering, understanding it within the context of common humanity, and showing ourselves the same kindness we would offer a friend. It is essential for self-nurturing, maintaining personal energy, and sustainably extending compassion to others. This foundation supports generative conversations and connections, and is crucial for the courageous work of systems change by normalizing and caring for our reactions to situations.

Broad Compassion in Systemic Change

Broad compassion is essential for engaging in generative and courageous conversations about changing systems. It allows us to be present in conversations and connections with others, honoring each person and perspective equally. This foundational skill enables us to host and progress courageous, system-changing conversations and actions.