Introduction
The recent release of the Superman movie, written and directed by James Gunn, presents a hero with a humanistic focus and other qualities that today’s leaders can emulate during challenging times.
Although there’s debate over who the best Superman is, it’s undeniable that the character created by writer Jerry Siegel and artist Joe Schuster in 1938 has evolved into a hero who remains true to his principles, instilled by his adoptive family, the Kents.
Embracing Humanity: Lessons from Superman’s Leadership
Mau Contreras, the director of leadership REx, comments: “When Superman faces tense moments and must make quick decisions, he always maintains clarity about his values and priorities.”
One of the most inspiring plot points is when Superman says, “I wake up every morning not knowing what I have to do, but I put one foot in front of the other and try to make the best decisions. I make many mistakes, but that’s what it means to be human, and that’s my greatest strength.”
In this sense, the concern for others and doing good without expecting anything in return is a valuable quality that leaders should cultivate within their teams.
Javier Blanco, an HR specialist, notes that leaders can learn from Superman by resolving problems using negotiation, while still maintaining a compassionate and human approach.
5 Leadership Lessons from Superman
In difficult times, seeking inspiration is a good practice, and Superman exhibits attitudes that today’s leaders can adapt:
- 1. Transmit Hope: A key characteristic of this version of Superman is his empathetic nature and role as a figure of hope. When teams face complicated situations, hope becomes an essential element to tackle challenges.
- 2. Give Recognition: Jonathan Kent, Superman’s adoptive father, is a character who instills human values like courage and love in his son. This habit becomes a crucial part of Superman’s routine.
- 3. Be Vulnerable: Superman’s only weakness is kryptonite, and for leaders, recognizing strengths is important, but acknowledging weaknesses is equally crucial.
- 4. Stay True to Principles: Despite working as a reporter at the Daily Planet and fighting injustice, Clark Kent remains faithful to his beliefs and values.
- 5. Sense of Justice: Superman’s most notable trait is doing what’s right, defending the innocent, and fighting based on a sense of justice. Leaders who prioritize others create better working relationships.
Mau Contreras explains that when a leader is going through tough times, transmitting hope enables finding creative solutions. Focusing on negativity or fatality limits responses.
When leaders acknowledge and appreciate their team’s efforts, it has a positive impact by empowering collaborators. “Recognition is a tool that adds value to a team, making it powerful. Knowing when to recognize effort generates commitment,” says Javier Blanco.
Being vulnerable doesn’t push people away; instead, it’s a way to connect with them. “Not everyone needs to know your weaknesses, but your close circle should to understand how to complement each other,” adds Mau Contreras.
“We often behave similarly at work and in our personal lives, based on our values,” argues Javier Blanco.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: How can leaders learn from Superman? A: Leaders can learn from Superman by using negotiation to resolve problems while maintaining compassion and a human approach.
- Q: What is one of Superman’s key qualities that inspires leaders? A: One of Superman’s key qualities is his ability to transmit hope, which enables creative solutions during challenging times.
- Q: How can leaders effectively recognize their team’s efforts? A: Leaders can empower their teams by acknowledging and appreciating their efforts, generating commitment and fostering a positive work environment.
- Q: Why is it important for leaders to be vulnerable? A: Being vulnerable helps leaders connect with their teams on a deeper level, creating trust and understanding.
- Q: How can leaders stay true to their principles? A: Leaders should base their actions on their values and beliefs, ensuring consistency between their work and personal lives.
- Q: What role does a sense of justice play in effective leadership? A: A strong sense of justice helps leaders prioritize others’ well-being, fostering better working relationships and a positive organizational culture.
