“Follow your heart to find your higher purpose.” ~John Mackey
Members of C3MD attended one of the largest US events for Conscious Capitalism in 2020. The Conscious Capitalism DC “Leading with Love” event at National Press Club with John Mackey, co-author of Conscious Capitalism: Liberating the Heroic Spirit of Business and CEO of Whole Foods. Mr. Mackey, one of the co-founders of the Conscious Capitalism movement, provided a mindful outlook on business, leadership, and growth.
According to Mr. Mackey, now is the best time to be in business. It’s the most prosperous time in history. Progress and change are occurring in all markets at a very fast rate. Creativity, innovation, and disruption all contribute to our expanding and growing world. And in order to keep up with it all, we need to be more conscious.
For business leaders, Mr. Mackey points out that conscious growth starts within, “Conscious leaders strive to make a positive difference in the world. They inspire others. They unleash creativity in themselves and others. They discern the unique talents and gifts of their teams and focus on new and innovative ideas.”
So how do we become more conscious in our leadership?
Based on Mr. Mackey’s experience and research, leaders today need to focus on purpose, love, and integrity. They need to listen to stakeholders, follow their hearts to find their higher purpose, take chances, and be open to change. Mr. Mackey believes that leaders today need to set aside time for self-awareness and be fully present in their daily lives.
To bring more love into the workplace, Mr. Mackey advises that leaders should strive to eliminate fear for employees, lead by example, promote creativity, use appreciations regularly and publicly, be grateful and authentic, be compassionate towards others and forgive ourselves and others.
“We must be the change we want to see in the world.” ~Mahatma Gandhi
At the same time, we can’t change others. Therefore, Mr. Mackey encourages us to change ourselves and our situations which will lead to making the world a better place.
—Sandy Young, C3MD Leadership Team