Document Type
Paper
Abstract
Zen philosophy concerns the nature of reality, which is constant change. Yet, no research exists concerning the application of Zen to leadership in a modern, secular organization. In this exploratory study, seven sources authored by Zen leaders were analyzed for content related to leadership and change. The leadership findings were framed in terms of Bass and Riggio’s transformational leadership model. While the approach of Zen leaders largely aligns with transformational leadership, several discrepancies were revealed. References to change most commonly involved the concepts Self/No-Self, Perception, Permanence/Impermanence, Attachment/Non-Attachment, Time, Knowledge, Calmness/Excitement, Concentration/Observation, Independence/Interdependence, Leadership, and Movement. Future research is recommended to examine Zen in the context of servant and spiritual leadership models, and to interview Zen leaders concerning application of Zen philosophy in their practice of leadership.
Current version with proper photo credit
Recommended Citation
Fagan, Jody C. (2019). Observing Change in the Present Moment: Lessons from Zen Leaders and Teachers. Paper presented at the Leading Change Inaugural Conference: Interdisciplinary Perspectives in Leadership Studies, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA. https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/leadcc/2019/1001/1/
Observing Change in the Present Moment: Lessons from Zen Leaders and Teachers
Zen philosophy concerns the nature of reality, which is constant change. Yet, no research exists concerning the application of Zen to leadership in a modern, secular organization. In this exploratory study, seven sources authored by Zen leaders were analyzed for content related to leadership and change. The leadership findings were framed in terms of Bass and Riggio’s transformational leadership model. While the approach of Zen leaders largely aligns with transformational leadership, several discrepancies were revealed. References to change most commonly involved the concepts Self/No-Self, Perception, Permanence/Impermanence, Attachment/Non-Attachment, Time, Knowledge, Calmness/Excitement, Concentration/Observation, Independence/Interdependence, Leadership, and Movement. Future research is recommended to examine Zen in the context of servant and spiritual leadership models, and to interview Zen leaders concerning application of Zen philosophy in their practice of leadership.
