by Dr Peter Chee
February 2, 2025
Leadership takes on new dimensions in an era defined by uncertainty and global challenges. To thrive, leaders must embody adaptability, creativity, and empathy. This ethos was central to a compelling dialogue between Dr. Peter Chee, World #1 Strategic Innovation Coach, and Abdulla Shahid, President of the 76th United Nations General Assembly. Their conversation unraveled the profound elements of versatile leadership, the transformative role of coaching, and the critical need for holistic well-being in organizations.
The Transformative Power of Versatile Leadership
When asked about the relevance of versatile leadership, Shahid shared a powerful insight, “Leadership is adaptation. It’s a movement that is a dynamic, evolving process.” He highlighted that effective leaders thrive by leveraging the strengths of others and remaining open to new insights. Noting that continuous learning was vital for effective leadership, he added that versatile leaders thrive by being willing to learn from others, fostering collaboration, and evolving alongside the changing world.
Shahid noted a key challenge many leaders face was the temptation to lean solely on past experiences. While experience is a valuable teacher, it cannot solve every problem in an increasingly complex landscape. “Old solutions cannot always solve new problems,” he observed, calling for leaders to embrace creativity and innovation as tools for navigating uncharted territories.
This mindset aligns with the increasing complexity of global challenges, from technological disruptions to climate crises. By encouraging adaptability and fostering a learning culture, leaders can better equip their organizations for sustained success.
The Foundation of Collaborative Leadership is Humility
In the interview, Shahid also highlighted the intrinsic role humility plays in effective leadership. Leaders, he explained, are encouraged to put aside hierarchical biases and actively seek contributions from all levels within an organization. This is a strength that fosters trust and collective problem-solving.
“Leaders must reach out to peers, colleagues, and team members and seek knowledge,” Shahid emphasized. This openness enables organizations to tap into diverse talents and perspectives, creating an environment where innovation thrives.
Dr. Chee’s question on humility prompted a deeper discussion about the importance of recognizing the value each individual brings to the table. Shahid noted, “Leadership is not about knowing everything; it’s about creating a space where everyone can contribute their best.”
The Indispensable Role of Coaching and Mentoring
Coaching and mentoring emerged as pivotal themes in the conversation. Shahid passionately underscored their importance in fostering teamwork and organizational growth. He argued that coaching is not merely a leadership tool but a cornerstone of a thriving organizational culture.
“A leader may be outstanding, but their strength is only as great as the team they lead,” Shahid remarked. He explained that mentoring builds bridges between generations, fostering mutual learning and ensuring a legacy of excellence. Coaching, on the other hand, equips team members with the skills and confidence to navigate challenges independently.
Shahid advocated for organizations to embed coaching and mentoring into their DNA, starting from the onboarding process. “From the time new recruits join, there should be a structured process to guide them,” he said. This ensures that individuals and teams grow in tandem to drive long-term success.
Wellbeing as a Leadership Imperative
The conversation also delved into the critical topic of wellbeing. Shahid offered a stark reminder, “Organizations cannot push their employees to the point of burnout. A balance between work and personal life is essential.”
Drawing an analogy to a beehive, Shahid emphasized the need for employees to thrive rather than merely survive. He called on leaders to promote physical and emotional wellness within their teams. This could involve providing resources for mental health, creating flexible work environments, and encouraging open dialogue about wellbeing.
Shahid also shared practical insights into how organizations can identify and support employees struggling with performance or personal challenges. “Reaching out to employees, understanding their situation, and providing support helps them return stronger and more confident,” he said, highlighting the long-term value of compassionate leadership.
Three Aspirational Wishes for Humanity
As the discussion drew to a close, Shahid shared three aspirational wishes for the future:
- Gender Parity: Shahid called for urgent action to close the gender equality gap, noting that at the current pace, it could take 300 years to achieve parity. He emphasized the need for intentional efforts to create equal opportunities for all.
- Empowering Youth: Harnessing the energy and creativity of young people is essential for driving positive global change. Shahid stressed that today’s youth are the architects of tomorrow, and investing in their potential is a critical for sustainable development.
- Environmental Stewardship: Addressing the global environmental crisis was Shahid’s third wish. He underscored the urgency of preserving the planet, calling for collaborative efforts to combat climate change and ensure humanity’s survival.
A Blueprint for Leadership in the 21st Century
This conversation between two visionary leaders offered a wealth of insights into the evolving nature of leadership. Shahid’s reflections serve as a roadmap for leaders seeking to inspire, empower, and transform their organizations in an interconnected world. As Dr. Peter Chee aptly concluded, “Here’s to making those wishes come true!” Leaders worldwide should draw inspiration from this dialogue to create a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future.
For further valuable learnings from ITD World, head on to the Expert Insights page at https://itdworld.com/expert-insights/