My deep immersion in both Eastern wisdom traditions and Western psychological practices has shown me time and again how powerful archetypal understanding can be in leadership development.
These universal patterns of behaviour and personality, which I've studied extensively through Jungian psychology and ancient wisdom teachings, offer profound insights for modern leaders. I've witnessed countless transformations as leaders recognise and harness their archetypal energies, which is why, for me, the Wizard of Oz has become such a valuable metaphor in my coaching practice.
In my coaching sessions I often use Archetypes. For example, during a coaching session with a senior executive in London, we explored how she embodied different archetypes in her leadership journey. Like Dorothy, she was seeking her 'true home' in leadership, while simultaneously carrying the Wizard's burden of maintaining a facade of unwavering certainty. This exploration led to a breakthrough moment in understanding her authentic leadership style.
On my Collective Ascent Group Coaching program we take a trip along the metaphorical Yellow Brick Road of the Wizard of Oz. Along the journey my clients gain a deep understanding of the cast of characters that contribute to who they are being. This includes Archetypes amongst other insights. This awareness enables greater choice and control in the impact that they have as a leader and of course as a human being 😊.
The Power of Archetypes in Leadership:
Dorothy - The Seeker Archetype 🌟 In my work with female executives, I often see them resonating deeply with Dorothy's journey. She represents the archetypal seeker - determined, authentic, and ultimately discovering that her power lies within. One CEO I worked with realised she'd been searching externally for leadership answers when her intuitive wisdom had been guiding her all along.
The Wizard - The Masks We Wear The Wizard's archetype particularly resonates in my coaching sessions. Behind the smoke and mirrors, many leaders struggle with impostor syndrome. Just as the Wizard eventually drops his facade, I guide leaders to embrace their authentic selves, finding strength in vulnerability rather than perfection.
Glinda - The Wise Guide as a leadership coach, I model my approach on Glinda's archetype. She doesn't give Dorothy direct answers but instead guides her to discover her own truth. This approach has proven transformative in helping leaders unlock their potential through self-discovery rather than prescription.
Your Archetypal Journey: Consider these reflective questions:
Which character's journey most mirrors your current leadership challenges?
What masks might you be wearing in your leadership role?
How could embracing your authentic archetypal strengths transform your leadership impact?
Diving deeper into these archetypal patterns, helps leaders understand how different situations call for different archetypal energies. Whether you need the Tin Man's compassion, the Lion's courage, or the Scarecrow's wisdom, understanding your archetypal palette enables more conscious, effective leadership.
Remember, like Dorothy and her companions, your leadership journey isn't about becoming someone else - it's about discovering and embracing who you truly are.
Rethinking leadership means knowing your purpose and following it, connecting to yourself and others and being a full expression of who you are. Here’s to those of us redefining what it means to lead—let’s keep rethinking leadership together.
PS: 33% discount now available until December 24th. Lmited number of seats.💖.

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