Poetry makes you a better leader

Poetry makes you a better leader.

That’s a bold statement.

I get it.

But hear me out.

Did you know that there are numerous evidence-based benefits of incorporating poetry into your personal development and leadership practice?

Things like:

1. Enhanced Emotional Intelligence:
Research: Studies show that reading and writing poetry can improve emotional intelligence by helping individuals better understand and express their own emotions as well as empathize with others.
Benefit: Leaders with higher emotional intelligence can navigate complex interpersonal dynamics and build stronger, more cohesive teams.

2. Improved Creativity and Innovation:
Research: Engaging with poetry stimulates the brain's creative centers, encouraging out-of-the-box thinking and innovative problem-solving.
Benefit: Leaders who embrace creativity can develop unique solutions to challenges and foster an environment of innovation within their organizations.

3. Increased Self-Awareness and Reflection:
Research: Reflective practices, such as reading and writing poetry, have been shown to enhance self-awareness by encouraging introspection and deeper understanding of personal experiences.
Benefit: Self-aware leaders can better recognize their strengths and weaknesses, leading to more effective decision-making and personal growth.

The benefits listed here illustrate how poetry can be a powerful and transformative tool for leadership development, offering both personal and professional growth opportunities for people who are willing to stretch themselves.

People like Sir Richard Branson. 

Winston Churchill.

And let’s not overlook the billion-dollar empire of Ms. Taylor Swift whose poems (songs) touch billions of people every day across the planet.

There are other ways poetry makes you a better leader, but for the sake of space and time, I will save them for a different post.

Poetry makes you a better leader -- and human

For years I have promoted the idea that writing and reading anything (not just poetry) are two of the most effective vehicles for experiencing massive personal transformation. People who aren’t interested in growth won’t resonate with this idea, and may even poke fun at it.

That’s okay.

I’ve witnessed what can happen first, in myself, and second, in the fantastic people I’ve worked with over the years when writing and reading out loud becomes an integral part of their daily leadership and personal growth practice.

As a specialized form of writing and reading, poetry offers an incredible portal into personal transformation. It is more than just art; it's a powerful tool for reflection and growth. 

It helps leaders explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a profound way, leading to deeper self-awareness and better decision-making.

And let's be honest: poetry is fun! Even the dark and sad and moody stuff.

Sometimes especially the dark and sad and moody stuff.

If you’re curious about how poetry could make a positive difference to you as a leader, hit me up.

If you'd like to get a copy of my poetry book, go here.

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