Why Become an Activist Contemplative Leader?

Why is it important to become an Activist Contemplative Leader?  What are the benefits, and why would anyone want to do the challenging work necessary to accomplish that?

For me, the effort to find that balance, to encompass both activism and contemplation, has made four of my most meaningful relationships deeper, richer, and more productive.

First, becoming more of an Activist Contemplative Leader is changing the way I connect with People Around Me, namely, those who follow my leadership.  The ways I lead groups, and the ways I help people become better leaders, have become more personal and more honest.  My work has become more focused on helping the people with whom I work find their true selves, no matter what the specific tasks before us happen to be.  I am a better listener, am more willing to share my self, and am a little better at thinking calmly before I start projects.

Second, becoming an Activist Contemplative Leader changes how I relate to The Rest of the World, or, anyone who is not in my immediate circle.  I am less focused on the conceptual ramifications of what happens around me, and more in touch with underlying reasons.  I am more personally connected to more people in more places around the world.  I think that my perspective is longer term; I am not as concerned about immediate responses and more interested in some of the unintended consequences of what I do.

Third, being an Activist Contemplative Leader has begun to change my relationship to Myself.  I have a clearer understanding of my own core values and vision, and am most concerned about making my actions as consistent with them as I can.  I am becoming better at listening to, and trusting, myself, and at appreciating that I cannot do everything myself.

Fourth, for me, being an Activist Contemplative Leader reflects and strengthens the ways I relate to God.  I am much less focused on finding the right answers, and more open to asking good questions.  My practice as a spiritual director and my connection to monastic spirituality teach me ways to relate to the people around me, the world, and myself. As I draw closer to God, I am able to draw closer to others and my true self.

How does becoming an Activist Contemplative Leader change you?

[Image by qthomasbower]