How to solve the hardest problems of our time

Our world desperately needs leadership. 

We need smart people to step into responsibility and face the most significant problems of our time. 

In the world of Paul Atridis's father (in Dune):

"A great man doesn’t seek to lead. He is called to it, and he answers." 

A leader listens to what the world needs from her. And steps into responsibility. 

But,

… we must ensure our leaders don’t mindlessly run in the wrong direction. 

They need to be

• resourced

• reflected &

• adding value to the world

Enter the 3 Disciplines of Leadership

One of the oldest mental models for stepping into responsibility comes from Buddhism. 

Buddhism is based on a 3-fold training: 

The Training of Moral Discipline, Concentration, & Wisdom (Sila, Samadhi, Panna).

It is a flywheel:

If you train one part, you also advance on the other. 

1. Moral Discipline:

Adhering to ethical guidelines for harmony and integrity. 

• Creating honesty and integrity

• Transparency and Trust

• Wellbeing and Harmony

How to train this: Reflection Spaces, work with a mentor, and relationships of depth and honesty. 

2. Concentration: 

Development of mental focus and inner ressourcedness.

• High Attention: level of Attentiveness. 

• Resources: moving from Reactive to Creative tendencies, 

• Inner Calm: A Calm nervous system

How to train this: Meditation, Retreat Settings, 360* Assessments, Yoga and Sports

3. Wisdom: 

Cultivation of insight and self-reflection. 

• Meta-awareness: Seeing the big picture

• Self-reflection: Ability to navigate complex challenges

• Self-Understanding: Reactive Patterns, Change, Impermanence

How to train this: Reflection Spaces, Work with a coach/mentor, Meditation, Contemplation

This simple framework has inspired some of the most remarkable leaders in the world. 

The disciplines are interdependent and mutually supportive.

Working consistently on advancing will strengthen your ability to hold difficult, complex situations.

You will be more resourced, honest and understanding to connect with difficult problems in the world.

Here is how you can apply it:

1. Write down how far you are in each of those components

2. Schedule training time for each discipline

3. Reflect monthly on the progress you made

Don't underestimate the power of this framework.

It is one of the timeless treasures of our shared humanity.

You can, of course, go deeper. Thousands of books have expanded on the concept.

But there is a beauty in its simplicity.

Write me about what comes up reflecting on this model and where you would need more support.

Yours,

P.S. Leading is hard. Here is how I can support you to lead yourself and your organization:

1. A la Carte Executive Training:

Each year, I support a few leaders & their organizations in transforming into more resonant versions of themselves. Want to be coached by me? Want to apply the models you are reading here in your leadership? Say hello.

2. The Yearly Reflection Space for Leaders:

Put yourself on the waitlist for my 2025 "Wise Leadership Retreat.“ You can apply here. 

3. A Beautiful Mind for Executives

If you want to train your mind with deep training from science and meditation traditions, this one is for you. My virtual “A Beautiful Mind Course” for Executives. Train here.

4. A CEO Playbook library with the best of Management and Leadership:

I scan the best of leadership literature and mindfulness so my clients can focus on what matters most—building a thriving organization. My client's CEO Playbooks library features the best management and leadership theory. You can have exclusive access here.

PPS: And because you deserve it - here is your bonus.

My 10 “Most Popular Mini Leadership Guides”:

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