Understanding compassionate leadership

Abstract

In a culture of compassion and care, the benefits to the individual and the organisation are vast—these include: creating a positive working environment; staff wellbeing; high morale; engaged workforce; and commitment to the organisation. All these factors will ultimately lead to a high quality of care for patients, and a better patient experience and outcomes. The challenges faced by society and the workforce today heighten our need for compassionate leaders across health and social care. A compassionate leader is an individual who embodies care, kindness, consideration, wisdom and integrity in their treatment of themselves and others. The article looks at compassionate leadership—its definition, characteristics, and traits. While the benefits are well documented in the literature, this article discusses the challenges that compassionate leaders may encounter and how best to support their development accordingly. The importance of self-awareness and self-care is vital to sustain the energy levels and effectiveness of the compassionate leader. Compassionate leadership has the ability to make individuals feel supported, valued and dignified. It is the author's view that it is one of the most important leadership styles within 21st century health care.