As a writer, I practice humanistic leadership by using people-first language. This means structuring sentences and choosing words that focus on the individuality and dignity of people rather than describing them by their condition, disability, characteristics, experience, and so on. What does people-first language look like? The following are two examples: 1. Avoid labels or stigmatizing. Describe the condition rather than defining a person by it. For example, say “a person experiencing homelessness” instead of “a homeless person.” 2. Focus on ability rather than disability. For example, “a person who uses a wheelchair” instead of “a wheelchair-bound person.” Words matter. We can use people-first language to lead with empathy and integrity. How do you practice humanistic leadership in your life or organization?
At the core of the Aspen Institute is the belief that humanism and humanistic studies are critical grounding points for a society to come together, especially important to healing after the fractures of World War II (when the Aspen Institute was founded). But what does it mean to practice humanistic leadership? To us, it’s the act of making ethical leadership decisions based on reason, empathy, and in the service of human dignity. An ongoing practice that emphasizes common human needs and the believes that each human is an end in and of themselves; with the rights and responsibilities to allow all to give meaning and shape to their own lives. -- How can you practice humanistic leadership in your life and in your organization? -- What does it mean to be a leader in service of human dignity? #HumanisticLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #LeadershipJourney #AspenLeadershipSeminars