Shakti Leadership: Embracing Feminine and Masculine Power

Too many leaders, men and women alike, have bought into the notion of leadership that exclusively emphasizes traditionally 'masculine' qualities: hierarchical, militaristic, win-at-all-costs. The result has been corruption, environmental degradation, social breakdown, stress, depression, and a host of other serious problems. But there is another way, one that restores balance to this lopsided way of leading. Reaching into ancient spiritual and mythical teachings, Nilima Bhat and Raj Sisodia revive a feminine archetype of leadership: generative, cooperative, creative, empathetic. While these qualities are often thought of as 'feminine', we all have them; however, for people in leadership positions, they tend to be undervalued and underdeveloped. In the Indian yogic tradition, this feminine principle is recognized as supremely intelligent and responsive. It is personified as the Great Mother or Goddess Shakti and is the source that powers the cycle of life.