Leadership is currently experiencing a profound transformation as the demands of the modern world evolve. Traditional leadership models—rooted in control, authority, and hierarchy—are no longer as effective. But if not through control, how can leaders wield power to create real impact? In a recent conversation on the 21st Century Entrepreneurship podcast, Sylvia Rohde-Liebenau, author of Who's In Charge?, shared her journey and insights into leading with real power, not by force, but through collaboration, energy, and legacy.
The Shift from Control to Impact
For many years, Sylvia worked in the corporate world, witnessing firsthand the struggles of leaders clinging to outdated management styles. These leaders believed control was the key to success, but Sylvia soon realized that force and control often hindered true progress.
"The people I'm working with are looking for new ways to lead," Sylvia explains.
"It’s really about understanding power—not as something to control others, but as a way to have an impact and create something meaningful."
Power, as Sylvia describes it, is less about authority and more about inspiring collaboration and fostering an environment where creativity thrives. This shift in perspective is crucial for today's leaders, especially in navigating the complexity of modern organizations.
The Power of Energy Management
In addition to rethinking power, Sylvia emphasizes the importance of managing energy—both personal and organizational. Leaders are often overwhelmed, constantly fighting on multiple fronts, which takes a toll on their energy. This struggle is something Sylvia is all too familiar with from her own corporate experience.
"Many times, we can't say no to things. So the question is, how do we manage our energy? How do we manage the energy of our teams?" she asks.
This shift requires a deeper understanding of human energy beyond the physical sense. "It’s not just about going to the gym. It’s about maintaining and managing our energy in a more holistic way."
The best companies, Sylvia notes, have recognized the need for this shift by incorporating mindfulness and meditation into their cultures. This understanding of energy goes beyond mere physical activity and includes mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
The Legacy That Matters
A significant portion of Sylvia’s message centers around the idea of legacy—what we leave behind when our careers or lives come to a close. For many leaders, especially those in their later years, this question becomes pressing. They've often achieved material success but find themselves asking, "Is this really what I wanted to create?"
Sylvia explains, "Legacy isn't necessarily about fame or having a building named after you. It's about having success while being in alignment with your values and being fulfilled."
Leaders must recognize that a life lived without fulfillment, even if financially successful, may feel like the ultimate failure.
Stillness in Leadership: A Secret Weapon
Sylvia shares a powerful concept: stillness. She doesn’t mean inactivity but rather a centered calmness that can help leaders remain steady amidst chaos. Drawing on her experience with martial arts, Sylvia speaks of the stillness found in the eye of a storm—a place where leaders can find strength and clarity.
"I learned in martial arts that you are never in disequilibrium. You have to be in stillness so you can react in any direction," Sylvia says. "In leadership, if you're pushing too much in one direction, you lose power. But if you're calm and centered, you have all the power around you."
This concept played out vividly in her career at the European Commission when she was faced with a particularly challenging meeting with a Russian delegation. "They were very angry, and I knew I had to be calm. By maintaining my inner stillness, I could connect with them on a human level, and the situation diffused," she recalls.
Key Takeaways for Modern Leaders
Redefine Power: Power is no longer about control. It’s about making an impact through collaboration, connection, and inspiration.
Manage Energy Holistically: Go beyond the physical. Recognize the importance of mental and emotional energy in yourself and your team.
Legacy is Personal: Success isn't just about status or wealth. It's about living in alignment with your values and creating a life you’re proud of.
Use Stillness as a Tool: In moments of crisis or challenge, maintain inner calm. This will allow you to act with clarity and strength.
Sylvia Rohde-Liebenau’s book Who's In Charge? delves deeper into these themes, offering practical advice for leaders looking to thrive in a rapidly changing world. For those interested in learning how to lead with power, energy, and purpose, Sylvia’s book is available on SmartPowerMethod.com and Amazon.
If these insights have resonated with you, now is the time to act. Reflect on how you can redefine power in your leadership, manage your energy more effectively, and think about the legacy you want to leave behind. It's never too late to start leading with real power.
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