So how was your August? Did you get some time to have a break away? Maybe some time on the beach or at the side of a pool with a good book? I don’t always make the time to read for leisure however I always make an exception for a summer read in August. This year’s book was A Different Kind of Power written by Dame Jacinda Ardern.
The 40th New Zealand Prime Minister, Jacinda was only the third woman in New Zealand history to hold office and only the second ever woman in office to give birth.
I loved her book. It moved me to tears in parts. Her willingness to be vulnerable and share her story and experience, especially for those among us who identify as smart, successful women, is inspiring. Can we really have it all? Is there a cost?
Whether you are a senior leader or just starting out on your management journey, we can learn so much from those in the public eye who are willing to share authentically and with humility their successes and failures.
While driving to be sworn in as prime minster, Jacinda was interviewed by a journalist:
“I want this government to feel different” she said. “I want people to feel that it’s open, that it’s listening and that it’s going to bring kindness back.”
Kindness for some people is sentimental and soft. Yet kindness has a power and a strength that almost nothing on this planet has. Kindness can do extraordinary things, give people hope, change minds and transform lives. Kindness was to be her guiding principle.
Kindness in leadership is about being clear, respectful, and human. When a manager leads with kindness, it creates a foundation of trust, strong communication, and sustainable performance.
Builds trust and loyalty
A kind manager creates psychological safety, making team members feel respected and valued. This encourages loyalty, builds trust, increases engagement, and makes employees more likely to stay committed — even during challenging times.
Improves communication and collaboration
Kindness encourages honest, open dialogue. When feedback is delivered with empathy, it’s more likely to be accepted and acted on. Teams communicate better, solve problems faster, and work together more effectively.
Boosts performance and prevents burnout
Kind managers recognise signs of burnout and offer support early. They balance expectations with empathy, leading to higher productivity without sacrificing well-being. Teams feel motivated, energised, and more likely to perform at their best.
So what would be possible if we all took a leaf out of Dame Jacinda’s book?. When we lead with kindness, everyone wins.
Image source: justice.govt.nz
Author: Ministry of Justice of New Zealand
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