Leadership: Discovering and Utilising Your Inner Sources of Strength

Overview

This article explores how leaders can discover and effectively utilise their inner sources of strength to enhance both their personal resilience and their leadership of teams. It examines the topic from both a philosophical and psychological perspective to highlight how these sources of strength not only improve self-management but also contribute to sustained leadership quality. Within the framework of Rethinking, the importance of regularly pausing, reflecting on personal resources, and discovering new approaches for fulfilling and effective leadership is underscored.

Sources of Strength from a Philosophical and Psychological Perspective

Sources of strength are an essential element of human existence, both on a personal and professional level. In the context of leadership, they take on particular significance as the ability to identify and harness sources of strength not only strengthens one’s resilience and performance but also influences the leadership of teams. Philosophically, the question of inner resources has deep roots in ethics, existential philosophy, and ancient thought. Aristotle, in his writings on eudaimonia – the pursuit of a fulfilling life—placed virtues and the balance between internal drives and external influences at the forefront. According to Aristotle, the inner strength that guides us is closely linked to the ability to act in accordance with one’s true purpose. Friedrich Nietzsche advanced this notion, viewing the source of strength within the individual. His concept of the Übermensch is an invitation to overcome external constraints and cultivate inner strength.

From a psychological perspective, sources of strength open up a wide spectrum of meanings. Carl Gustav Jung emphasised the importance of individual consciousness, which is strengthened through the confrontation with the unconscious. The process of individuation, as he called it, aims to grasp and develop the self in its entirety. In this development lies the greatest source of human strength: the realisation of one’s own self. On a more everyday level, positive psychology builds on this concept, highlighting that sources of strength, such as positive emotions, flow experiences, and a sense of purpose, not only increase well-being but also serve as anchors in difficult situations.

In both the philosophical and psychological perspectives, it becomes clear that identifying and cultivating sources of strength is far more than just a personal matter. It is about a deeper understanding of one’s existence and using this insight to lead a fulfilling life in both private and professional contexts.

Sources of Strength in Self-Management and Leadership

For leaders, the question of their own sources of strength takes on particular significance. The pressure to constantly deliver results, meet challenges, and motivate employees requires not only organisational skills but also a solid inner foundation. The ability to manage oneself begins with exploring one’s strengths and questioning what serves as a source of energy in one’s life. This can vary widely – from intellectual stimulation and physical exercise to connecting with others. Awareness of these sources and the deliberate engagement with them are crucial for personal balance and long-term success.

In the leadership context, however, it is not just about self-management but also about making sources of strength accessible to others. A leader who is aware of their own resources exudes stability and can engage their teams on a deeper level of commitment and motivation. It is not enough to communicate visions and goals. The leader must act from their own strength in order to serve as a role model. Employees can sense the authenticity and inner drive of a leader. When this is lacking, the leadership itself weakens.

An important aspect of leadership is therefore reflecting on the role one’s sources of strength play in interactions with employees. A leader who is aware of their energy sources can communicate more clearly and effectively, resolve conflicts with greater composure, and remain calm even in crises. Additionally, reflecting on sources of strength opens up new ways to develop innovative solutions. The ability to think creatively and pursue unconventional solutions often stems from moments of personal contemplation and calm.

Moreover, it is clear that sources of strength are dynamic. They change over time and are context-dependent. What served as a source of energy in one phase of life may lose its significance in another. The ability for continuous self-reflection is therefore essential. Leaders should regularly pause and assess whether they are tapping into their current sources of strength or if new sources need to be discovered and activated.

The Relevance of This Topic for Rethinking

Within the framework of Rethinking, the search for sources of strength is one of the central tasks. The Rethinking process requires a deep engagement with one’s mental, emotional, and physical resources. It is not only about identifying sources of energy but also about how these can be sustainably utilised. Rethinking involves breaking old patterns of thought, freeing oneself from external expectations, and developing an individual perspective on the world.

Leaders who integrate Rethinking into their approach unlock new dimensions of self-leadership. They recognise that sources of strength are not always found in the obvious, but often lie in the hidden aspects of life. It could be quiet reflection on one’s values, a conversation with a mentor, or inspiration from art and culture. These perspectives enable a fresh outlook on professional life and more creative responses to challenges.

In the leadership context, Rethinking also offers the opportunity to encourage teams to discover their own sources of strength. Leaders who have undertaken this reflective work themselves can act as role models and help their employees find their own access to resources. This not only creates a healthier working environment but also fosters the creativity and problem-solving abilities of the entire team.

Future Perspectives: The Importance of Sources of Strength in a Changing Environment

The working world is characterised by uncertainty, complexity, and rapid change. In this context, the ability to tap into stable inner sources of strength is invaluable. Leaders face the challenge of guiding themselves and their teams through turbulent times, as traditional structures and certainties disappear. Digital transformation, globalisation, and the growing importance of remote work demand a high degree of adaptability from leaders. However, this flexibility can only be effective if it is fuelled by a stable inner core.

The sources of strength that a leader has relied on in the past may no longer suffice in the digitised working world. New challenges require new approaches. In a world where constant availability becomes the norm and the boundaries between work and private life blur, the ability to set clear boundaries and actively draw upon regenerative sources of strength becomes a key leadership skill.

Furthermore, the ability to use sources of strength in a connected and digitised world is increasingly becoming a key competence. Leaders must learn to navigate virtual teams and maintain their own energy in digital spaces. It is not only about mastering digital tools, but also addressing the deeper question of how to ensure one’s own well-being—and that of the employees—in a disembodied working environment.

Conclusion

The search for sources of strength and their utilisation is not a one-off act but an ongoing process rooted deeply in the philosophical and psychological examination of the self. For leaders, it is essential to know, strengthen, and apply their inner resources in the leadership of their teams. In a changing, digitised world, the ability to draw on stable inner sources of strength becomes a competitive advantage. It enables not only the enhancement of personal performance but also allows the leader to act as an inspiring role model. Rethinking offers the key to questioning habitual ways of thinking and discovering new, powerful methods of self-leadership. This makes it possible to lead with confidence and guide teams with inner strength, even in challenging times.