As a leader, you’re constantly learning how to cultivate vision, make wise decisions, communicate clearly, and navigate conflict with care, among many other things! As your project grows, so will the complexity: you’ll need to keep growing in your leadership in order to think strategically, stay grounded in your values, and support others while still tending to your own growth. Leadership can feel overwhelming at times, but it's also one of the richest ways to deepen your integrity, clarity, and impact.
You don’t have to figure it all out alone. Carla Fernandez, co-founder of the Dinner Party, has a weekly 90-minute call and an annual retreat with a friend who is equally committed to spiritual leadership and personal evolution. Many innovators seek out fellowship programs, peer learning groups, or other professional development opportunities which can be a powerful way to build your capacity and confidence. These spaces can offer not just skills and tools, but relationships with others who are walking similar paths. Whether it's a formal program or a trusted mentor, investing in your own development is never selfish—it's an act of care for your community and your calling. The stronger and more grounded you become as a leader, the more your work can flourish.
Leadership resources
There are unnumbered resources for leadership development out there, but here are a few key practices and approaches that might be particularly valuable to you as a spiritual innovator.
Building a cycle of action and reflection into your leadership will help you both move forward and take stock of what you’ve learned. Check out this audio meditation from Angie Thurston to reflect on a particular decision you’re facing through the lens of spiritual values. Or reflect on what season of leadership you’re in through this framework from the Ayni Institute.
It can be helpful to find leaders who inspire you. To learn about Indigenous elder women who heal, strengthen, and restore the balance of Indigenous communities, check out Spirit Aligned Leadership, as one example. Or learn about the Locke Leaders, Christian spiritual innovators who are developing new practices and ministries that expand the experience of God’s love.
A growing number of organizations are offering trainings for spiritual innovators eager to develop their leadership. Start by checking out the work of Beloved and Glean, who run cohorts for spiritual innovators at various stages of organizational maturity.
Founded by Richard Rohr, CAC offers teachings that blend contemplation and justice. Digital programming, including the Living School, a two-year program exploring Christian mysticism.
