Meditation and Leadership

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

Leadership is tough, and it’s in short supply. But it’s the key ingredient, the secret sauce, without which an enterprise or initiative cannot be effective. No wonder it’s usually the most respected, best compensated, and often the most satisfying role to play in any organization. Success in this fast-paced, changing world requires that leaders exhibit an extraordinary level of self-understanding and self-control. Their behavior and decisions must harmonize with their personal values and with the best interests of all stakeholders and with those of the larger society their organization serves. This requires not only vision and drive, but also humility and integrity. Leaders with integrity are our best hope that organizations and enterprises will not only thrive, but will also contribute sustainably, inclusively, and fairly to the common good of society. Practicing meditation can help produce such leaders with integrity. In this course we will explore the connection between meditation and leadership. The class will be highly experiential: Everyone in the class, from day one, will learn (or continue) to practice meditation. Guest speakers from a variety of backgrounds will share their own experiences of meditation in real-world conditions of leadership. Students will keep a journal of insights and questions, craft a personal rule of life, and engage in group exercises grounded in listening and attention. Major topic include:  The nature of meditation: a contemporary but ancient world-wide phenomenon;  The scientific evidence: what meditation does to your body and brain;  Establishing a habit: making meditation part of your daily life;  Determining your personal values: leading from the center;  Enlightened leadership: managing in an environment of competing values; and  Being a leader with integrity. The course is open to undergraduates in the McDonough School of Business, and others on a space-available basis.