Navigating Leadership in Turbulent Times- Insights from Beerel’s “Rethinking Leadership”
In her book “Rethinking Leadership: A Critique of Contemporary Theories,” Annabel Beerel delves into the essence of leadership during periods of turmoil and uncertainty. Her critical examination is timely, given the backdrop of the global COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring the relevance of her work. Beerel advocates for a reevaluation of leadership paradigms in light of transformative events that are reshaping our professional landscape. In today’s volatile climate, characterized by ongoing crises and geopolitical tensions, leaders face a constant barrage of challenges. From the conflicts in Ukraine and Russia to the enduring tensions in Palestine and Israel, alongside domestic political issues in the United States and myriad challenges within Christian and church leadership, it seems that we are in a perpetual state of crisis. In such times, effective leadership becomes paramount in navigating these complex and ever-evolving landscapes. Annabel Beerel’s book offers invaluable insights into leadership in crisis, providing a nuanced exploration of how leaders can adapt and thrive amidst uncertainty and adversity.
Each chapter of Beerel’s book scrutinizes different established leadership theories, ranging from neuroscience-informed leadership to adaptive and transformational leadership approaches. She then assesses these theories through the lens of practical implications for crisis management, advocating for an ethical leadership style that embraces diversity and holistic systemic thinking. Beerel emphasizes the fluid nature of leadership, asserting, “Leaders need to remember that everything is changing, and every possible outcome is probable.[1]” This underscores the imperative for leaders to cultivate adaptability and prepare for a spectrum of potential scenarios.
The section that particularly struck a chord with me was Beerel’s insightful exploration of the shadow side of leadership. Here, she delves into the psychological underpinnings of leadership, shedding light on the less admirable qualities that may emerge during times of stress or pressure. Beerel underscores the importance of identifying and addressing these negative traits, highlighting their significant impact on organizational culture. This discussion on leadership’s dark side immediately brought to mind the work of Dr. Michael Simmons, whose doctoral project, “Inner Work Community: Shadow Work as Spiritual Formation,[2]” delves deeply into the spiritual discipline of embracing one’s shadow. Drawing from the profound insights of Robert Johnson’s “Owning Your Own Shadow,[3]” Dr. Simmons advocates for the transformative power of inner work as a pathway to emotional and spiritual wholeness.
Beerel’s book excels when it integrates theoretical frameworks with practical insights. She transcends traditional theoretical boundaries by incorporating perspectives from psychology, ethics, and brain science, arguing that modern leadership necessitates a deep understanding of human behavior and organizational dynamics. This interdisciplinary approach underscores the imperative for leadership grounded in a holistic understanding of human nature and organizational dynamics.
My final thought on the book comes from her chapter on transformational leadership. Transformational leadership according to Beerel is a form of leadership that “stimulate intrinsic motivation within their followers, which results in their producing extraordinary outcomes.[4]” Though this is one form of leadership is limited and usually wielded by very charismatic people it is the leadership I think I identify with the most.
[1] Annabel C. Beerel, Rethinking Leadership: A Critique of Contemporary Theories (London New York: Routledge, 2021), p.2.
[2] Simmons, Michael https://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1008&context=dld
[3] Simmons, Michael https://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1008&context=dld
[4] Annabel C. Beerel, Rethinking Leadership: A Critique of Contemporary Theories (London New York: Routledge, 2021), p.295
5 responses to “Navigating Leadership in Turbulent Times- Insights from Beerel’s “Rethinking Leadership””
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.
I really enjoyed your last blog! It’s no secret you are charismatic! What do you think is the key characteristics of transformational leadership? Is there more than one?
Daron,
This is an excellent take away; especially in light of our zoom chat today
“Leaders need to remember that everything is changing, and every possible outcome is probable.[1]”
I agree with this. You are this kind of leaders. If you had more time…I would love to hear more thoughts on the word intrinsic. How do you actually inspire intrinsically?
My final thought on the book comes from her chapter on transformational leadership. Transformational leadership according to Beerel is a form of leadership that “stimulate intrinsic motivation within their followers, which results in their producing extraordinary outcomes.[4]” Though this is one form of leadership is limited and usually wielded by very charismatic people it is the leadership I think I identify with the most.
see you May 2nd Doctor George!!
Daron,
I appreciated your post and how well it was thought out and addressed the depth of the book. The idea that what has worked is maybe not what will continue to work is a needed conversation and I am excited to continue this one. Keep on leading and asking the hard questions.
Nailed it! Strong finish, great post. I am also drawn to the “less admirable qualities that may emerge during times of stress or pressure.” If we want to be great, we have to identify our weaknesses and prepare for inevitable as Beerel puts it.
It was great to end on a more relaxed subject. I pray you lead in extraordinary ways and make extraordinary changes in the lives of others.