Leadership Lessons from My Newborn Granddaughter
Welcoming my newborn granddaughter into the world has been a heartwarming and humbling experience. Holding her, watching her tiny gestures, and marveling at her instinctive ways of engaging with the world reminded me that leadership lessons can emerge from the most unexpected places.
As I reflected on her presence, I began to see parallels between her early ways of being and the timeless qualities great leaders need. Here are five powerful leadership lessons inspired by my granddaughter.
1. Embrace Curiosity and Continuous Learning
My granddaughter looks at everything with wide-eyed wonder, the colors, sounds, and faces around her. Each day is an adventure in discovery.
Leaders can learn from this boundless curiosity. Maintaining a growth mindset helps us stay adaptable, innovative, and resilient. When leaders approach challenges with openness rather than certainty, they invite creativity and continuous learning into their organizations.
2. Ask for What You Want
Though she cannot yet form words, my granddaughter communicates her needs clearly through her expressions and cries. There is no hesitation; if she needs something, she lets us know.
Leaders benefit from this same clarity. Clear and timely communication about goals, expectations, and needs prevents misunderstandings and builds trust. A leader who asks directly for what they want sets the stage for alignment and shared success.
3. Practice Gratitude and Joy in Simplicity
A smile, warmth, nourishment, and love bring my granddaughter immense joy. Her contentment is a reminder that gratitude is not found in excess, but in appreciating the essentials.
Likewise, leaders who create a nurturing, supportive environment empower their teams to thrive. Recognizing contributions, celebrating small wins, and fostering gratitude help teams remain engaged and motivated, even in demanding times.
4. Prioritize Self-Care
Infants have no hesitation in making their needs known. They sleep when they are tired, eat when they are hungry, and cry when they need comfort.
Leaders, however, often push past their own needs, skipping meals, neglecting exercise, or working long into the night. Yet research consistently shows that leaders who prioritize self-care are better equipped to manage stress, make sound decisions, and support others effectively. By honoring our well-being, we become stronger, steadier leaders for those who depend on us.
5. Engage Without Judgment or Bias
My granddaughter accepts everyone who holds her with openness. The only “bias” she shows is toward the one who can meet her immediate needs when she is hungry. Otherwise, she welcomes each person as they are.
Leaders have the same opportunity. By setting aside judgment, practicing active listening, and inviting varied perspectives to the table, we create a culture of authenticity. When people feel seen and valued for who they truly are, extraordinary collaboration becomes possible.
Closing Reflections:
From the innocence of my newborn granddaughter, I am reminded that leadership is not only about strategy or vision, but also about presence, authenticity, and care. As leaders, we are called to cultivate curiosity, communicate with clarity, practice gratitude, care for ourselves, and engage others without bias.
Sometimes the greatest leadership lessons arrive not in the boardroom, but in the quiet moments of life. Watching my granddaughter grow, I am reminded daily that leadership, at its core, is about nurturing potential in ourselves and others.
Happy birthday little one!