During this stressful primary campaign season in the U.S., candidates are trying to show how their particular leadership strategy is best for the future. Whether we agree with a direction or not, there is always some great lessons to be learned. One of candidates shared that what he gained from this experience was to be open to listening not only with his brain, but also with his heart. When he listened with his heart, he was able to make authentic connections with voters and he discovered more about their true needs. What an extraordinary concept- listening with our hearts leads us to deeper and more meaningful connections with people.

[Tweet “Leaders listen with both their hearts and brains.”]

If this is such a successful strategy, why don’t more leaders activate their hearts to gain greater insights and build stronger relationships? Putting heart into our leadership can seem too “touchy-feely” for some, yet without heart there is less influence and impact.

Here are five ways to add heart to your leadership:

 1. LEARN TO BE AN ENGAGED LISTENER

For many of us, listening is so difficult. We know it is necessary to actively listen, but we can’t seem to do it well. Have you tried these tips?

• Hear the message without bringing in preconceived ideas or judgments
• Don’t interrupt and even remind yourself to stay quiet
• Listen to the words carefully
• Ask questions that are respectful and get to the heart of what is being presented
• Validate the person’s point of view

2. THINK WITH YOUR SOUL

Working side by side with your team members, colleagues or people we collaborate involves more than just carrying out tasks and completing projects. It involves being accepting of different work styles from your own and different personalities. Value opposing perspectives by mulling them over and integrating them into a final outcome.

[Tweet “Leaders use their hearts when they understand different work styles.”]

3. VALUE BUILDING DEEPER CONNECTIONS

I am a big fan of Patrick Lencioni’s, “The Five Dysfunctions Of A Team” where he talks about the need to cultivate a foundation of trust. That is what all the candidates in the primaries are shooting for too. When we trust others, we are able to cement meaningful relationships. Lencioni suggests:

• Get to know the people we work with each day in a more profound way
• Find out whether they have siblings and where they fall in the birth order
• Discover a challenge they may have faced in childhood
• Go beyond the workplace and learn what may be influencing the actions of a team member

4. BE WILLING TO TRY A NEW APPROACH

You may think that your vision is the best, but asking others how they see the direction going can produce magical results. Although I share my perspectives and theories in my workshops, there is never a program I leave not learning something from the participants. To be able to absorb alternative directions and suggestions means I am willing to try new things and grow in my thinking. People appreciate when their ideas are considered and included as it demonstrates our open hearts.

[Tweet “Lead by opening your heart to other’s ideas and insights.”]

5. SAY- “I AM HERE FOR YOU”

When we lead by showing others how important their stories and challenges are to us, we are adding heart to our leadership.

When we show up and stay focused and engaged we are empowering our hearts to hear completely and openly.

When we help others see their gifts and strengths we are cultivating their future leadership.

When we share our vulnerabilities and mistakes we allow others to see our humanity.

How do you add heart to your leadership strategy?

Connect with me to help you and your team add heart to your workplace.