As a registered Psychologist and Leadership Coach, one of my core values is to utilize evidence-based models and approaches, as they unequivocally drive change and deliver results. Below, I explain the Acceptance Commitment Training (ACT) model I use in my programs, the supporting evidence, and why it consistently achieves outcomes.
The Evolution of Acceptance Commitment Training (ACT) and Its Impact on Leadership
In the dynamic world of leadership, adaptability and emotional intelligence are paramount. Acceptance Commitment Training (ACT), an evolution of Acceptance Commitment Therapy, has emerged as a transformative tool for leaders and leadership teams. Originally designed as a therapeutic approach, ACT now extends its benefits beyond therapy to enhance psychological flexibility among leaders, which is key to effective leadership and the development of emotional intelligence.
Understanding Psychological Flexibility and Its Importance in Leadership
Psychological flexibility is the ability to stay present, adapt to situational demands, and act according to one’s values despite the presence of challenging or disruptive thoughts and emotions. For leaders, this skill is crucial. It allows them to navigate the complexities and uncertainties of the business environment, make balanced decisions, and maintain a clear vision.
In leadership, psychological flexibility manifests in several ways:
1. Adaptability: Leaders face rapidly changing circumstances. Psychological flexibility enables them to pivot strategies and approaches without being paralyzed by anxiety or rigid thinking.
2. Resilience: Setbacks and failures are inevitable. Leaders with psychological flexibility can recover more quickly, learning from experiences rather than being derailed by them.
3. Emotional Regulation: Leaders often work under pressure. Psychological flexibility helps them manage their emotions effectively, preventing stress from impairing their decision-making or interactions with their team.
Psychological flexibility is also integral to developing emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence comprises self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Leaders who are psychologically flexible are more likely to exhibit these traits because they can understand and manage their own emotions and recognize and influence the emotions of others.
The Role of ACT in Enhancing Psychological Flexibility
ACT operates on six core principles: cognitive defusion, acceptance, contact with the present moment, observing the self, values, and committed action. Through these principles, ACT helps leaders achieve psychological flexibility by:
o Cognitive Defusion: Reducing the power of negative thoughts and helping leaders view their thoughts objectively.
o Acceptance: Encouraging leaders to accept difficult emotions and situations rather than avoiding or fighting them.
o Present Moment Awareness: Enhancing mindfulness and focus on the current situation.
o Observing the Self: Fostering a sense of self-awareness and perspective.
o Values Clarification: Helping leaders identify and stay true to their core values.
o Committed Action: Encouraging proactive and value-driven behaviour.
Evidence of ACT’s Impact on Leadership and Organisations
Numerous studies and real-world applications have demonstrated the effectiveness of ACT in enhancing leadership capabilities and organisational performance.
1. Improved Leadership Performance: Research has shown that leaders who undergo ACT exhibit greater psychological flexibility, which translates to improved decision-making, stress management, and team dynamics. For example, a study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology found that leaders trained in ACT reported lower stress levels and higher job satisfaction.
2. Enhanced Team Cohesion: ACT helps leaders create a more supportive and cohesive team environment. By modeling psychological flexibility, leaders can foster a culture of openness and resilience. This, in turn, enhances team collaboration and innovation.
3. Organisational Resilience: Organisations that incorporate ACT into their leadership development programs often see increased overall resilience. Leaders are better equipped to navigate crises, drive change initiatives, and maintain a positive organisational climate. For instance, a case study involving a large healthcare organisation revealed that ACT-based leadership training led to improved employee morale and reduced turnover rates.
4. Boosted Emotional Intelligence: Leaders trained in ACT demonstrate higher levels of emotional intelligence. They are more adept at recognizing their own emotions and those of their team members, leading to better interpersonal relationships and more effective conflict resolution.
In conclusion, Acceptance Commitment Training (ACT) has evolved from its therapeutic origins to become a powerful tool for leadership development. By fostering psychological flexibility, ACT helps leaders navigate the complexities of their roles with resilience and emotional intelligence. The evidence of its effectiveness in improving leadership performance, team cohesion, and organisational resilience underscores the value of ACT in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing business landscape.
Margie Ireland is one of the few Leadership Coaches who is also a registered Psychologist, who has proven to help CEOs, MDs, and HR Executives uncover and identify hidden weaknesses, and the necessary changes and their implementation to steer clear of potential risks and achieve better results. Margie is works with medium-sized organisations and large corporates across diverse industries. For more information go to www.margieireland.com
