Why authoritarian leadership has no future - and how empathic leadership is changing our working world

In many companies, we are currently experiencing a surprising comeback of authoritarian leadership: clear announcements, control from above and little room for co-determination. Some are even calling for more 'masculine energy'. This may seem effective in the short term - but in the long term, this type of leadership is a risk to the mental health and well-being of employees.

Authoritarian leadership sells the illusion of safety, promising clarity and strength in uncertain times. But this so-called security comes at the cost of disempowerment, dependency, and a culture of mistrust. People lose their sense of agency, motivation declines, and creativity is stifled. In today’s fast-paced and complex work environments, that’s a recipe for failure.

Empathic leadership as an alternative

The good news is that there is a strong alternative. Empathic leadership, based on values such as trust, integrity and dialogical communication, is proving to be much more sustainable. Studies from positive psychology and organizational research show that leaders who act in an emotionally intelligent and mindful way not only strengthen the well-being of their teams, but also promote innovation and productivity.

Lunia Hara's new book “Empathic Leadership” is a valuable guide for anyone who wants to establish a people-centered leadership culture. At the same time, organizations such as Mindful Leader offer practical tools and programs to anchor mindfulness and positive leadership in everyday working life.

Why positive leadership really counts

Scientific studies show that positive leadership - i.e. leadership that focuses on strengths, purpose and sustainable development - achieves much more than mere assertiveness:

• Higher employee satisfaction

• Better resilience against stress

• Increased innovative strength and collaboration

Especially in today's world, it is clear that sustainable success can only be achieved through empathetic leadership that empowers people and shares responsibility. If we as leaders are brave enough to embrace change and focus on humanity and connection, we can strengthen not only our companies but also our society.

Let's work together to create a working world that is based on trust rather than control - a world in which everyone has the power to develop their full potential. Because true leadership today means more than ever: encouraging, connecting and growing together.