Regenerate
In this week’s parsha, Moses experiences a breakdown, the lowest emotional point of his leadership career. He expresses his despair to G-d, questioning why he has been burdened with the responsibility of leading the people. This breakdown seems disproportionate to the cause – the people complaining about their lack of food, a situation Moses has faced before.
The concept of adaptive leadership, as distinguished by Prof. Ronald Heifetz, sheds light on Moses’ struggles in the book of Numbers. Technical challenges have clear solutions, while adaptive challenges require people to change. In Exodus, Moses provides technical leadership, with G-d providing solutions to the people’s problems. In Numbers, however, Moses must provide adaptive leadership, guiding the people to change and take responsibility for themselves.
Adaptive leadership is emotionally draining, as people resist change and erect barriers against it. Moses, with his prophetic insight, senses the people’s resistance to change, leading to his despair. However, G-d comforts Moses, providing him with the strength to continue his adaptive leadership.
Judaism views adaptive leadership as the highest form of leadership, challenging individuals to take responsibility and become partners in the work of redemption. Despite the difficulties, adaptive leaders like Moses shape nations and inspire future generations. The Torah’s honesty about Moses’ struggles highlights the challenges of adaptive leadership, emphasizing the courage needed to lead people through change.
The message to Joshua to be strong and courageous in upholding the Torah reflects the dual challenges of military and spiritual leadership. The verse emphasizes the exceptional courage required for spiritual leadership, as guiding people through change is the highest leadership challenge.
Adaptive leadership demands the strength to fight internal battles and help others find the courage to change. It is a challenging but essential aspect of leadership, shaping the future of nations and inspiring positive transformation.
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