What a week it’s been.
I find myself inspired, gratified and irritated all at once.
Inspired because hope and joy have come to the fore without sacrificing competence.
Gratified by the existence of a female presidential candidate who demonstrates an intensely inclusive style leadership, which I’ve been advocating for the last 30- plus years.
And irritated because so much of the media continues to underestimate Harris’ masterful approach, accusing her of everything from avoiding questions (from the very reporters who brutalized the current president with whom she serves) to having the temerity to view joy— as opposed to fear— as a winning strategy.
Even her opponent doesn’t underestimate her this much. Perhaps because he recognizes that she understands the actual nature of power.
Harris’ refusal to be manipulated into doing what has not worked for the last few decades shows her stalwart ability to keep her eye on the prize and the discourse focused on what she wants to talk about. I note this not because I agree with all her policies, but because I admire her methods.
And I love that it’s a woman who’s reversing the stale “we’re so divided!” narrative that has kept us all stuck in recent years. While also nailing a key skill that has eluded female leaders for decades: the ability to call her own shots and not worry whether she will be seen as aggressive, shrill, or (God forbid) just “too much.”
Although it’s premature, Harris’s approach gives us reason to say it, loud and proud: hail to the chief!
Because we are living in such an extraordinary moment as relates to inclusive leadership, I've decided to post reflections and insights as they occur to me throughout the week depending on developments, in addition to my regular weekly newsletter on Wednesday. Thank you for your support!
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