How can leaders balance empathy and accountability to drive meaningful change? Inspired by Power and Love by Adam Kahane, this checklist provides actionable steps to integrate love (connection) and power (agency) in your leadership approach. Use it to navigate complex challenges, foster trust, and build partnerships that lead to sustainable progress.
Checklist 1: Embrace the Tension Between Love and Power
Recognize that both empathy and accountability are essential for effective leadership.
- Did I approach the situation with openness to both connection and clarity?
- Am I avoiding the extremes of being overly accommodating or overly directive?
Checklist 2: Clarify Your Intentions
Align your actions with both relational and goal-oriented intentions.
- Did I identify the outcomes I want while considering their impact on others?
- Have I clearly communicated how my goals align with the team’s shared purpose?
Checklist 3: Practice Generative Listening
Engage with empathy to uncover new possibilities and deeper understanding.
- Did I listen fully, resisting the urge to interrupt or make assumptions?
- Did I validate others’ perspectives, even when I held them accountable?
Checklist 4: Balance Advocacy and Inquiry
Combine assertiveness with curiosity to foster productive dialogue.
- Did I express my expectations clearly and respectfully?
- Did I ask thoughtful questions to better understand others’ viewpoints?
Checklist 5: Navigate Conflict Constructively
Transform conflict into an opportunity for growth and trust-building.
- Did I address the conflict with empathy, focusing on solutions rather than blame?
- Did I ensure accountability while maintaining respect and emotional safety?
Checklist 6: Share Responsibility
Foster collaboration by empowering others and encouraging accountability.
- Did I involve others in decision-making processes that affect them?
- Did I create a culture of shared ownership for outcomes and responsibilities?
Checklist 7: Reflect and Adjust
Evaluate your leadership approach and adapt to improve outcomes.
- Did I reflect on how I balanced empathy and accountability in this situation?
- What adjustments can I make to enhance trust, clarity, and results in the future?
How to Use This Checklist
This checklist is a practical tool for empathetic leaders striving to balance connection and accountability. Use it to prepare for or reflect on your actions in leadership and collaboration, ensuring you foster trust while driving results. Regular use can help you build stronger teams and lead with integrity.
Why You Should Read Power and Love
Adam Kahane’s Power and Love offers a transformative framework for balancing connection and agency in leadership. By exploring how empathy and accountability intersect, the book provides invaluable insights for leaders navigating tough challenges. Reading this book will deepen your understanding of how to create lasting, meaningful impact.
