What Is Leadership in the Context of Higher Self Leadership?

In this article, we will be defining leadership from the context of higher self-leadership.  If you’ve read any of my earlier articles, you will know my leadership development model is centred around what I call Higher Self Leadership.  It is based on four principles:

Higher self leadership is about accessing and leading from a place of deep inner wisdom, often called the higher self. This type of leadership goes beyond skill or strategy. It is rooted in alignment with one’s true essence and a commitment to contribute to the collective good. Higher self leadership emphasises qualities such as compassion, authenticity, and unity. Thus encouraging leaders to make decisions that serve the well-being of all.

The first principle of this leadership is that the leader is authentic and intuitive. This is because they are connected to their inner and collective wisdom.  Because of this connection, they can also connect to others’ best selves and bring out the best in others.  Their level of unity consciousness means they perceive and make decisions reinforcing the higher good of all.  Steven Covey called this a win/win outcome.

Because higher self-leaders operate from a place of wisdom, they inspire others to do the same. Whether conscious of their higher self or not, people know this is invoked in them, and it feels good. The higher self leader develops self-awareness to operate consistently from their higher self (and not continually be drawn into the ego mindset). A heightened awareness of self means they can understand others more clearly and help others develop their self-awareness.

The “So What” Test – Why Does It Matter?

Why does higher self leadership matter, and what difference does it make? The “So What” test asks us to consider the real impact and value of leading from the higher self beyond theory and ideals. At its core, higher self leadership addresses fundamental needs in today’s world. There is a need for authenticity, for leaders who foster unity, and for decision-makers who act from a place of integrity and wisdom. However, this approach isn’t just a “nice to have” quality. It’s highly transformative for organisations, communities, and individuals.

Practically, leaders who embody higher self leadership create environments where people feel seen, valued, and inspired. Employees under such leadership are more engaged and motivated. This leads to higher productivity, better problem-solving, and increased retention. Additionally, higher self leaders make decisions that reflect a win-win mindset, as Stephen Covey emphasised—decisions that uplift and benefit the collective rather than competing interests.

Higher self leadership matters because it meets people on a soul level, inspiring them to connect with their potential and purpose. In times of crisis or uncertainty, leaders connected to their higher selves model resilience and clear vision, providing stability and hope. The ripple effect is powerful: when leaders operate from their higher selves, it raises the entire organisation’s vibration, creating a culture where collaboration, empathy, and purpose drive everything they do.

The Impact of a Leader Choosing Their Higher Self Over the Ego Self

When a leader chooses to operate from their higher self instead of their ego, the impact is transformative for both the leader and those they lead. The ego self often operates from a place of fear, competition, and self-preservation, focusing on external success, status, or control. In contrast, the higher self is grounded in compassion, authenticity, and a commitment to the collective good. When leaders make decisions from their higher self, they transcend the limitations of ego-driven motivations, creating an atmosphere of trust, integrity, and collaboration.

Leaders choosing their higher self have an expansive view, enabling them to see beyond personal gain or immediate outcomes. They create win-win scenarios by recognising the interconnectedness of all team members, departments, and stakeholders. This shift builds unity and promotes open communication, where team members feel valued, safe, and inspired to bring their whole selves to their work. A leader’s ability to move beyond ego sets an example, encouraging others to do the same and fostering a culture of authenticity and mutual respect.

Moreover, higher self-led decisions are often marked by resilience and clarity, as the leader’s inner wisdom guides choices that align with long-term, sustainable success. In contrast, ego-driven decisions may be reactive or short-sighted, leading to burnout or misalignment within the team. Ultimately, a leader who consistently chooses their higher self over the ego creates a ripple effect, transforming their organisation into a space where growth, connection, and purpose thrive.

What Is the Purpose of Leadership in the Context of Higher Self Leadership?

When viewed through the lens of higher self leadership, leadership’s purpose is to facilitate growth and enlightenment for oneself and others. This form of leadership seeks to guide people toward their highest potential. It empowers them to discover their strengths and realise a significant purpose. This goes beyond focusing solely on outcomes or external goals, even though those outcomes or goals are fundamentally important.   Higher self leadership emphasises nurturing the collective consciousness and fostering interconnectedness.

A leader’s purpose here is to create an environment where people feel inspired, valued, and encouraged to explore their unique gifts. By leading from a higher self, leaders help individuals transcend limiting beliefs and embrace a more expansive vision of what’s possible. Ultimately, higher Self Leadership aims to awaken the innate wisdom within everyone and foster a culture rooted in unity, self-awareness, and inspiration. It simply gets the best out of everyone involved and makes life worth living.

What Are the Roles of a Leader in Higher Self Leadership?

Higher self leadership roles extend beyond traditional organisational or hierarchical roles. Here are some of the critical roles a Higher Self Leader embodies:

1. Guide and Mentor

A Higher Self Leader acts as a guide and mentor, supporting others on both their personal and professional journeys. This role involves sharing insights, wisdom, and encouragement, helping individuals to connect with their true selves and realise their potential. Higher self leaders foster a safe space for self-discovery by providing mentorship rooted in authenticity and compassion. They empower others to recognise their unique strengths, make decisions aligned with their inner values, and cultivate confidence in their paths. This guidance helps individuals navigate challenges with resilience, as they feel supported and encouraged to grow.

2. Connector of Consciousness

As a Connector of Consciousness, a Higher Self Leader serves as a unifying presence, reminding individuals of their shared purpose and collective vision. They help team members understand that they are part of something greater than themselves, encouraging collaboration over competition. This role is crucial in creating a culture where people feel interconnected, valued, and motivated to contribute to the group’s success. By nurturing a sense of unity and harmony, higher self leaders promote a collaborative environment that values every person’s contribution and celebrates shared achievements, strengthening team bonds and morale.

3. Inspiration and Role Model

Higher self leaders inspire others by embodying qualities like compassion, integrity, and authenticity, setting a powerful example for those around them. Their commitment to living in alignment with their values demonstrates that success can be achieved without compromising one’s principles. Their actions and attitudes show that authentic leadership comes from leading by example. This inspires others to elevate their perspectives and behaviours, encouraging a culture of growth, self-improvement, and mutual respect. A Higher Self Leader’s authenticity resonates deeply, motivating others to connect with their values and embrace their highest potential.

4. Facilitator of Inner Growth

As facilitators of inner growth, higher self leaders create opportunities for others to deepen their self-awareness, self-reflection, and mindfulness. They emphasise the importance of emotional and spiritual well-being, helping individuals understand the power of a balanced inner life. This support extends to guiding others in exploring their higher selves, allowing them to connect with their intuition, emotions, and inner wisdom. By encouraging personal growth practices, Higher self leaders contribute to a nurturing environment where individuals feel empowered to grow internally, resulting in increased clarity, emotional intelligence, and resilience in both personal and professional settings.

5. Bringing Out the Deliberate Creator

Higher Self Leaders encourage each person’s role as a deliberate creator within the organisation. By fostering an environment where the organisation’s vision and individual goals are aligned, they help people understand how their aspirations and the group’s mission can be mutually inclusive. This approach empowers individuals to take ownership of their roles and actively contribute to the collective vision, knowing that their efforts serve personal and organisational growth.

In this environment, Higher self leaders guide team members in clarifying their intentions, setting meaningful goals, and taking intentional actions that bring their ambitions to life. This alignment strengthens a culture of purpose-driven engagement, where every individual feels their contributions are valued and directly connected to the more considerable organisational success. As a result, the organisation benefits from heightened motivation, shared direction, and collaborative energy, enabling everyone to achieve shared and individual goals in harmony.

How Functional Leaders Can Benefit from Higher Self Leadership

I believe we’ve become lost when it comes to being inspired by our leaders.  This is because many visible leaders demonstrate clear ego-based leadership.  This is one of the reasons there is so much stress in organisations, communities and worldwide.  It feels like there is a misconception that leading for the good of all will lead to bad outcomes.  However, nothing could be further from the truth.

Higher self leadership can bring significant, practical benefits to leaders in various fields—whether in politics, business, or social causes. Each leadership role carries unique demands and challenges, but operating from a place of self-awareness, unity consciousness, inspiration, and connection to a higher self can elevate these leaders’ impact and effectiveness. Here’s a look at how Higher self leadership can be applied across a sample of different leadership functions and the potential benefits and constraints.

1. Political Leaders

Political leaders who lead from their higher selves approach their roles with a sense of purpose that extends beyond personal or partisan interests. Operating from a space of unity consciousness enables them to make decisions that serve the collective good and transcend divisive agendas. With enhanced self-awareness and emotional intelligence, they can foster trust, demonstrate integrity, and communicate authentically, making it easier to connect with diverse constituents. This approach can lead to more inclusive policies, collaborative governance, and a more substantial, unified public impact.

However, it’s understandable that in an ego-dominated world, these leaders who want to operate from the long game and for the greater good can be portrayed as weak or not acting in their own people’s best interests.  Political leaders may face external pressures from lobbyists, party expectations, and public scrutiny. The political environment can often demand quick decision-making and compromise, which may conflict with the reflective practices of higher self leadership. Additionally, political leaders may fear appearing “soft” or impractical if they prioritise compassion or unity over strategic power plays. Developing higher self attributes in a highly competitive, outcome-driven field requires resilience, inner strength, and a commitment to personal integrity despite external demands.

2. Corporate or Business Leaders

For corporate leaders, higher self leadership fosters a purpose-driven workplace where employees feel valued and motivated. Business leaders who connect with their higher self are more likely to prioritise ethical decision-making, sustainability, and well-being, increasing employee engagement, loyalty, and productivity. Unity consciousness encourages these leaders to view the company as a collective rather than a hierarchy, fostering an inclusive culture where collaboration and innovation thrive. This approach also strengthens customer relationships, as consumers are increasingly drawn to brands that operate with integrity and social responsibility.

Corporate leaders may face constraints such as shareholder expectations, competitive pressures, and the need for quick investment returns. Operating from a higher self may be perceived as impractical or “too idealistic” when financial goals take precedence. The demand for rapid results can make it difficult for leaders to engage in the reflective practices that nurture higher self qualities. However, corporate leaders can gradually integrate these principles into daily practices by framing higher self leadership as a long-term investment in company culture and brand value.

3. Transformational Leaders in Social Causes

Leaders in social causes often align with the principles of higher self leadership, such as unity consciousness and inspiring purpose. They mobilise communities more effectively by leading from self-awareness and a connection to a higher purpose. This connection helps to sustain morale in the face of challenging social issues. Their commitment to values like compassion and service resonates deeply with volunteers, stakeholders, and donors, strengthening support and engagement.

Higher self leadership enables social cause leaders to inspire transformative, sustainable change that creates a lasting impact on communities. However, these leaders may struggle with limited resources. They tackle high-stakes issues and experience burnout. This makes it challenging to operate from their higher self consistently. They often have to balance empathy with strategic action, which can feel contradictory.

Additionally, the urgency of social issues can make self-care and reflection seem like luxuries. Yet, these practices are essential for supporting resilience in the long term. Developing higher self attributes in social leadership requires a commitment to personal well-being. It requires a conscious effort to avoid compassion fatigue.

4. Educational Leaders

In education, higher self leadership allows leaders to create learning environments that are academically enriching and emotionally and spiritually supportive. Leaders who connect with their higher self can foster a culture of unity and inclusion where students and staff feel seen, respected, and valued. By promoting self-awareness and mindfulness, these leaders help students develop lifelong emotional intelligence and resilience skills. The influence of a Higher self leader in education extends beyond the classroom, inspiring future generations to lead with compassion and self-awareness.

Educational leaders face constraints such as standardised testing requirements, limited budgets, and administrative policies that may restrict their flexibility. The pressures of meeting external benchmarks can make prioritising the holistic well-being of students and staff challenging. Additionally, educational institutions often have deeply ingrained cultures that resist change, making it difficult for leaders to introduce practices rooted in higher self leadership. Overcoming these constraints requires patience, advocacy, and small, consistent changes demonstrating the value of a higher self approach in education.

5. Healthcare Leaders

Healthcare leaders operating from higher self leadership bring compassion and empathy into an industry where stress and emotional exhaustion are prevalent. By embodying unity consciousness, they encourage a collaborative culture. This is when all team members—doctors, nurses, and support staff—feel valued and work together for the patient’s well-being. Self-awareness in healthcare leadership helps address burnout as leaders become more attuned to their needs and those of their teams. This approach ultimately leads to improved patient care and a healthier, more resilient workforce.

Time-sensitive situations, limited resources, and high-stakes outcomes often constrain healthcare leaders. The political and cost-based considerations are a barrier to operating higher self leadership in these situations. This is true even if genuinely operating from a higher self, and then win/win solutions would undoubtedly emerge.  The urgency of patient care can make it challenging to prioritise inner reflection and personal development. Leaders may also feel that prioritising self-awareness and compassion might be seen as impractical in a field driven by efficiency and results. Overcoming these constraints involves integrating small mindfulness practices and promoting a culture of empathy without compromising patient care.

It’s A Journey

Implementing Higher self leadership presents challenges. Most challenges are due to individuals’ varying levels of consciousness and self-awareness. Many people have primarily operated from ego consciousness. This is the state of consciousness where self-preservation, external validation, and competitive success drive behaviour. This is often through no fault of their own. Shifting from this mindset to one based on higher self principles—unity, compassion, and inner guidance—can feel disorienting and intimidating. These concepts may seem abstract or unproven for those unfamiliar with their higher self. This is especially true when they are used to measuring success through tangible, ego-driven outcomes.

Building confidence in their higher self requires time, trust, and reassurance through proven results. Higher self leaders understand that personal growth is a journey. By introducing these principles gradually, they create a supportive space for exploration. This approach helps individuals grow more comfortable with a consciousness rooted in authenticity, connection, and shared purpose. With time, initial apprehension transforms into lasting confidence and inner strength.

Higher self leadership brings practical benefits across various leadership roles by fostering unity, compassion, purpose-driven action, and resilience. Leaders who operate from their higher self positively impact their organisations and broader society. While time pressures, cultural resistance, and external demands present challenges, small, consistent practices help reinforce higher self leadership’s value.

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I help leaders develop self- mastery, helping them to become confident in their own inner guidance.

I collaborate with leadership experts, managers and HR professionals to help them get their own message and unique services and products to a wide audience.

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