By Rev. Dr Susan Goldsworthy
In a world grappling with ecological, societal, and technological challenges, empathy in leadership is not just desirable but essential. With rising stress and isolation, leaders who foster connection can guide teams toward resilience and innovation. By embracing a collaborative, secure base leadership approach, anchored in conscious choice, constructive challenge and courageous communication, we can navigate complexities and co-create a thriving future.
As we face escalating ecological crises, increasing societal polarization, and rapid technological disruption, the need for empathetic leadership—leadership that prioritizes human connection—has become a defining imperative. In this moment, when humanity is on track to achieve none of the seventeen United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) required to ensure our planet remains in a state suitable for human thriving, leadership must evolve from a power-over, dominant, command and control style to an empathic “power-with” approach, that fosters collaboration, resilience, and shared purpose.
Humans are fundamentally a social species. At the core of our ability to thrive—not merely survive—is our deep-rooted capacity for collaboration. Contrary to the misconception that human evolution is driven solely by competition, Darwin emphasized the role of adaptability and connection. As he noted, “It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent, but the one most adaptable to change.” Our evolutionary success stems from our ability to empathize, communicate, and work together to overcome challenges. Neuroscience provides further insight into this. Mirror neurons in our brains allow us to understand and resonate with others’ emotions, forming the biological basis for empathy. This innate capability underscores why fostering connection and collaboration is vital for both individual well-being and collective progress. Yet, in an era where stress, isolation, and burnout are rampant, our natural tendencies toward empathy and collaboration are increasingly at risk of being overshadowed by fear, competition, and disconnection.
While technology has revolutionized the way we work and communicate, it has also contributed to increasing isolation. Social media platforms, designed to connect us, often create superficial interactions that lack depth and genuine connection. The constant barrage of notifications and the pressure to maintain an idealized digital presence can lead to feelings of inadequacy and loneliness. Moreover, algorithms prioritize content that engages through outrage or fear, further polarizing communities and deepening divisions. These trends highlight the paradox of technology: while it has the potential to bring us closer, it often amplifies disconnection, making empathetic leadership more critical than ever. Leaders must intentionally counteract these effects by fostering authentic human connection and ensuring that technology serves as a tool for collaboration rather than a barrier.
Empathy as a Leadership Imperative
Far from being a ‘soft skill’ or ‘optional trait,’ empathy in leadership is a strategic necessity. Empathy may be viewed as a type of social intelligence that helps people to connect with others, build relationships, and work together more effectively. Empathetic leaders are able to see the world through the eyes of others, creating psychological safety and fostering innovation. In times of uncertainty, a secure base leader provides both safety and challenge, encouraging their team to explore, take risks, and grow while knowing they are supported. Secure base leadership is particularly crucial in a world where people feel increasingly isolated. According to the World Health Organization, stress and anxiety are at all-time highs. Loneliness has been dubbed a public health epidemic. For organizations, this isolation translates into reduced engagement, creativity, and resilience. Empathy, however, can counteract these trends. By cultivating an environment of care and understanding, leaders can help individuals reconnect—to themselves, their teams, and their shared purpose.
Empathy in leadership is not about avoiding conflict or maintaining harmony at all costs. Instead, it involves the courage to to foster an environment where caring, daring and sharing coexist. Central to this approach are three key areas for fostering thriving teams: conscious choice, constructive challenge, and courageous communication.
- Conscious Choice: This is about choosing to lead with intention and aligning actions with values. This means cultivating self-awareness and actively listening to understand the needs, fears, and aspirations of others.
- Constructive Challenge: This involves creating a space where team members feel safe to question the status quo, take risks, and engage in healthy debates that drive innovation and growth.
- Courageous Communication: Authentic dialogue rooted in respect and care ensures that even difficult conversations are framed constructively, as opposed to from a place of blame or fear, enabling teams to navigate challenges with clarity and collaboration.
The principles of empathy in leadership align closely with Carl Rogers’ person-centred approach, which emphasizes three core conditions: unconditional positive regard, empathic understanding, and congruence. These conditions form the foundation for building trust and fostering genuine connections, whether in therapy, leadership, or interpersonal relationships. Leaders who embody these principles create environments where individuals feel seen, included, valued, and empowered to contribute their best.
Cultivating Empathy: The Future of Leadership
Far from being a weakness, empathy is a profound strength. It aligns with our biological, social, and ethical imperatives, enabling us to adapt, innovate, and grow together. As we move forward, the leaders who will make the greatest impact are those who understand that leadership is about celebrating our shared, common humanity. Together, through empathy and shared purpose, we can rise to meet the challenges of our time. Leaders who prioritize human connection, who embrace the the power of collaboration, and the strength of secure base relationships, are not only more effective but also beter equipped to guide their teams and organizations through uncertainty toward a thriving future.
About the Author
Rev. Dr Susan Goldsworthy is an Olympic finalist, award-winning author, executive coach, and speaker with more than 40 years of corporate experience. She is author of new book Care Dare Share: The Secure Base Coach, published by IMD and is Co-Director (Lead) of IMD’s Executive Coaching Certificate and Program Director of the Leadership Skills for Sustainable Change program.
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