The existence and experiences of different emotions in our lives, does play an important role in shaping the person we become. These experiences mould our reactions and responses, and in turn translate into capabilities that we develop while dealing with people and situations. For leaders, such capabilities are of critical importance as they engage and develop their teams. Here are a few such capabilities that leaders can develop out of their experience of Love as an emotion. 

Love accepts us as us, it creates an environment in which we feel we are understood, accepted, and we can be who we are. No judgements and No fear. For a leader, it is of prime importance to create an environment in which authenticity is encouraged. An ecosystem which encourages candidness, honesty, where no idea or opinion is big or small and where differences are not only accepted but also welcomed. Such an environment brings out the best in people and makes them give their “discretionary effort”. In an authentic environment motivation and engagement thrive. 

Love is about being partners in each - other's growth. With a vibe of unconditional support and unfettering trust. Love sees not only the good but the best in us. Makes us believe in ourselves and generate a very positive outlook of life. Leaders too need to act like “Growth Drivers'' for their team members. By not only providing them opportunities to grow and develop, but also making sure that each of them is propelled to achieve their highest potential. 

Have you ever been annoyed when your loved one’s ask a lot of questions of an idea or something you are very excited about? With unfettered support love also brings in its ability to be one’s greatest critic. Love never wants you to fail, Thus, will take the responsibility of being your Devil’s Advocate. With trust and respect as the cornerstones of this emotion, this role of love is easily accepted and acknowledged. On a similar note, a leader having created a culture of trust and mutual respect, should always constructively question their team members to bring out their best performance. Guide them for feet forward. At the same time, team members should be empowered to question decisions and act as Devil’s Advocate for their leaders. A team will always succeed till it has the capability to challenge itself and raise the bar for its own self. The leader has the biggest onus of not only creating but encouraging such an environment where authentic conversations and dialogues form the centre of all decisions. 

Love never gives up. It is never “quits” for love, it tries and tries till the last mile. One question that should always linger in a leader’s mind with “hand on heart”, is that has he or she put in all the efforts to develop and support a team member, especially in tough situations like those related to performance. 

Love never misses a chance to celebrate and be happy. Even the smallest of things are acknowledged, celebrated, and remembered. This is a big one for leaders, as most of the time in what we see as “the busy schedules”. The first thing which gets missed is acknowledging a team member and saying well done. Truly celebrating achievements however small they may be go a long way in making people feel valued. Leaders should get out of the “fear of recognizing” and not worry that appreciation will create more expectations. In addition, not only learn to “distribute recognition” but also keep a very small or no share for their own self. True satisfaction as a leader and, similarly in love comes when you see your team member or loved one, being celebrated. 

Thus, these simple yet powerful experiences of love as an emotion, can truly be translated into leadership capabilities. They not only go a long way in enhancing the effectiveness of a leader but also maximises the potential of the team.

Wishing you a Happy Season of Love and Leadership!!