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by Robin Sharma
Unleashing the Power of Emotional Intelligence
"Primal Leadership" by Daniel Goleman, Richard Boyatzis, and Annie McKee explores how effective leaders use emotional intelligence to motivate others and build strong relationships. It offers insights and strategies for developing these skills and creating a positive work environment.
The reason that emotionally intelligent leadership is so crucial in the workplace has to do with the “open-loop” nature of the limbic system – the emotional center of our brains.
Many other systems in our bodies are closed-loop, meaning they aren’t impacted by external factors. For instance, the circulatory system of the person sitting next to you has no direct effect on your own bodily functions. In contrast, open-loop systems are highly dependent on external sources. That’s why our limbic system is able to receive signals from people around us that can alter our hormones, sleep rhythm, and even immune system functions. In other words: our peers have the power to physiologically influence our emotions.
Good leaders can make use of this fact. Throughout history, groups of humans have looked to them for emotional assurance and certainty when facing threats or accomplishing tasks. It’s likely that ancient leaders were placed in their roles because their leadership style was emotionally compelling.
In modern organizations, this primal aspect of leadership is often overlooked – but the concept remains just as important. Especially in the workplace, people often take their cues from the top. The way that a leader approaches and executes their work carries special weight. Leaders “manage meaning” for the group as a whole, setting the emotional standard for how to interpret and react to any situation.
Leaders who learn to maximize the benefits of primal leadership can drive the emotions of their employees in a positive direction. And the better they are at transmitting positive emotions, the more powerfully the good feelings are spread.
Of course, this isn’t to say that leaders have to be overly nice or fake positivity when things go wrong. Instead, what matters is communicating the realities of worklife without causing undue stress. The more demanding the work, the greater the need for a supportive, empathetic leader.
Not only does an emotionally intelligent leadership style benefit the well-being of employees – and the organization as a whole – but it has also been shown to improve efficiency. After all, we’re not robots … yet! The way we feel at work directly impacts the effort we’re willing to put in.
Primal Leadership (2013) argues that the fundamental task of any great leader is to engage the emotions of their followers and guide them in a positive direction. Offering up an emotionally intelligent, resonant style of leadership, it delves into the skills and qualities needed to become a better leader and bring out the best in your team.
Primal Leadership (2002) explores the power of emotional intelligence in leadership roles. Here's why this book is a good choice:
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Try Blinkist to get the key ideas from 7,500+ bestselling nonfiction titles and podcasts. Listen or read in just 15 minutes.
Start your free trialBlink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
What is the main message of Primal Leadership?
The main message of Primal Leadership is the importance of emotional intelligence in effective leadership.
How long does it take to read Primal Leadership?
The reading time for Primal Leadership varies, but it typically takes several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Primal Leadership a good book? Is it worth reading?
Primal Leadership is worth reading because it provides valuable insights and strategies for improving leadership skills.
Who is the author of Primal Leadership?
Primal Leadership was written by Daniel Goleman, Richard Boyatzis, and Annie McKee.