Executive coach Stephen Bruyant-Langer explores how existential philosophy can help leaders to find fulfillment in work and life – for the benefit of all.
Key takeaways: understanding the LWA Model
- Leaders need resilience. The LWA model is based on the work of the philosopher Hannah Arendt and teaches us how to thrive at work by improving resilience.
- Mind work is work. Make time to reflect. Set aside dedicated time each week to reflect on what you really want.
- Recognise the power of introversion. Many senior leaders are introverts who step into extroverted roles when necessary. Respect your need for solitude.
- Respect your body. You can't work at your best if you're not physically healthy. Make time for exercise and rest so that you're ready for whatever crisis you might face.
About Stephen Bruyant-Langer
Stephen Bruyant-Langer is an executive coach, author and keynote speaker. He worked in marketing for Coca-Cola and L'Oréal before founding his own executive coaching company.
His latest book is called The Existential Playbook: How to Survive, Live and Thrive.
Let's Act: implementing the LWA model
The "labor" element of the model is "mindful movement." To be a resilient leader you need to be physically strong. But it's not always easy to carve out the time to look after your body.
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So make this commitment today:
- Get active at least once a day.
A leader should aim to be in a state of "relaxed readiness," as Stephen calls it. If you're giving a presentation or staying late to work on a project, your physical health shouldn't be overlooked.
Get up for a walk, do morning stretches, or join an exercise class. Whatever it is, deciding to move is the first step to getting stronger.
Explore these other resilience, purpose and leadership resources from Mindtools for more insights:
- Quiz: How Resilient Are You?
- Article: The Wheel of Life
- Expert Interview: Living a Fulfilled Life
- Video: Improving Leadership: The Choice, Action, Responsibility Model
- Video: Stephen Bruyant-Langer's Nordic Leadership Model
- Podcast: Pain Points: Stephen Bruyant-Langer on Meaning
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