Leading with mind, heart, body and spirit

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider the nature of leadership in the current context where the crisis in global capitalism seems to be encouraging a mechanistic approach to the management of healthcare. The paper urges an holistic leadership ethos to encourage an holistic approach to care and treatment.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper utilises an extensive overview of the leadership literature, and also used practical examples of care and leadership practice.

Findings

Care and capability need to be partners, but concern has been expressed at all levels of society that a reductionist model is being implemented in many caring professions.

Practical implications

The implications for leadership are that one of the most vital current requirements is to encourage a spirit-filled leadership at all levels in the organisations that provide care.

Originality/value

The paper addresses the issue that leadership can never be a purely intellectual or emotional activity, it must combine all aspects of the person in an holistic approach.

Citation

Gilbert, P. (2013), "Leading with mind, heart, body and spirit", International Journal of Leadership in Public Services, Vol. 9 No. 1/2, pp. 65-76. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJLPS-05-2013-0013