In the dynamic landscape of leadership, where challenges abound and the need for authenticity is paramount, the ancient Sanskrit word “Sankalpa” emerges as a beacon informing leaders toward a transformative journey of self-discovery, intentionality, and purpose. Rooted in the union of ‘san,’ meaning ‘connection with the highest truth,’ and ‘kalpa,’ signifying ‘commitment’ or ‘vow,’ Sankalpa is more than a resolution—it’s a sacred commitment to align one’s actions with a profound sense of purpose. This post aims to consider the impact of Sankalpa on one’s leadership skills, providing insights into its meaning, and its significance for leaders seeking to navigate the complexities of their lives.
Sankalpa, at its core, transcends the commonplace. It’s not merely about setting goals but about forging a deep connection with one’s authentic self. In the words of Swami Satyananda, author of “Four Chapters on Freedom: Commentary on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali,” Sankalpa is a sacred vow that connects us with the highest truth, paving the way for a purposeful and intentional life. Thus, as the authors of “Discovering Your Authentic Leadership” suggested in HBR in 2007, ‘authentic leadership is not a role; it’s a way of being.’ Sankalpa offers a structured approach to authenticity by encouraging leaders to set intentions that align with their values, strengths, and long-term goals. By formulating a Sankalpa, leaders articulate a clear sense of purpose that becomes the compass guiding them toward genuine and impactful leadership.
‘Leadership often involves navigating intricate decision-making processes,’ as suggested by Bazerman and Moore. Sankalpa provides a mindful approach, ensuring choices are grounded in a commitment to the highest truth and core values. This intentional decision-making not only enhances the quality of choices but also fosters a sense of integrity and purpose in leadership. And while these two qualities are paramount in the leadership landscape, ‘resilience is a hallmark of effective leadership,’ as advocated by Tugade and Fredrickson (2004). Sankalpa serves as a source of resilience, providing a solid foundation during challenging times. By reaffirming their commitment to overarching goals, leaders can navigate setbacks with grace, emerging stronger and more determined to fulfill their mission.
Tune in for my next blog post when we’ll take a deeper-dive into some practical methods to apply Sankalpa through personal leadership style and team collaboration.
Contact me at http://www.vscoachingandconsulting.com to speak more of your circumstances and how we can partner and collaborate.
