I recently had an intriguing conversation with a friend of mine, an architect. We were discussing the nuances of design when he shared a fascinating quote from a Tibetan monk about the art of drawing a straight line: “To draw or paint a straight line, you always pull towards yourself, never push away.”

This simple yet profound advice made me reflect deeply, especially on its implications for leadership.

Pulling Towards, Not Pushing Away

In architecture, as in leadership, the significance of the direction in which we apply our efforts is paramount. My architect friend explained how every line they draw is the foundation of a larger vision, much like the decisions made by a leader. The monk's counsel, to pull rather than push, resonates with the idea of leading by attraction and inspiration rather than force. Great leaders, like skilled architects, know the importance of drawing their team and resources towards a shared goal, creating a cohesive and driven group.

The First Line: A Beginning and a Commitment

In architectural design, the first line on paper is both a beginning and a commitment to a vision. This line sets the course for everything that follows. Similarly, a leader’s initial vision and decisions set the tone for their team's journey. It’s about making that first mark with certainty and clarity, ensuring it leads in the right direction.

Mindfulness and Vision: The Triangle from Eye to Heart

The monk’s concept of visualizing a triangle from the pencil tip to the eye, then to the heart, and back to the pencil, struck me as a powerful metaphor for mindful leadership. It's not just about where we lead but how we lead. Being mindful of our vision (the eye), our emotions and values (the heart), and our actions (the pencil tip) ensures that we lead in a way that is true to both our goals and our principles.

Just as architects draw lines to create spaces that inspire, facilitate, and protect, leaders draw invisible lines that guide, motivate, and support. This conversation with my architect friend reminded me that leadership, like any art, requires not only skill and knowledge but also a mindful, heart-centered approach.

As we step into this new year, let's remember the lesson of the straight line. May we pull towards ourselves not just success and achievements, but also deeper connections, meaningful experiences, and a leadership path that aligns with our most authentic intentions.

By Dean Miles

Keywords: Business Continuity, Coaching, Mental Health