Modern Leadership Anchored in Ancient Wisdom

Written By Chantal Patruno

A Compass for Now and the Future: Leading with Ikigai, Ubuntu, and Dharma

We are living through times of immense change—globally and within ourselves. Geopolitical tensions, climate crises, and economic uncertainty create a sense of perpetual instability. As leaders, we're expected to navigate this complexity, make confident decisions, and align our teams, all while managing our own doubts and fears. It’s no wonder that many of us feel the weight of the world on our shoulders. Yet, there is also an unmistakable sense of possibility. Amidst the chaos, we can build something better, but we must first embrace the kind of leadership the world craves—one rooted not in certainty, but in human connection, purpose, and trust.

Over the past 25 years, through executive coaching, organisational change consulting, and psychotherapy, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing profound transformations in leaders who embrace a more conscious, values-driven approach. What I’ve seen is this: leadership today is not about control or projecting certainty. It’s about being present with complexity, making courageous choices, and acting with integrity.

This journey of conscious leadership calls us to ground ourselves in timeless wisdom and modern practices that guide us toward greater empathy, purpose, and resilience, and to cultivating environments where both people and performance can flourish.

In this article, I want to share with you how the concepts of Ikigai, Ubuntu, and Dharma—ideas that span across cultures and time—can serve as the perfect compass for navigating today’s leadership challenges. These guiding principles are practical, powerful, and deeply human, and they invite us to see leadership not as a position of power but as a dynamic, evolving responsibility to others and the greater good.

In my work with leaders, the most powerful transformations occur when they rediscover their Ikigai. This deep sense of purpose turns work from a task into a calling, igniting extraordinary results. As the Japanese proverb says, “When the heart is content, the mind will be at ease.”

Ikigai: Leading with Purpose and Passion

Ikigai (生き甲斐), a Japanese concept meaning “a reason for being,” invites us to lead from a place of deep purpose. It’s about finding the intersection of what we love, what we’re good at, what the world needs, and what we can be compensated for—where passion and mission converge. In Japanese culture, it is a comprehensive approach to life, encompassing joy, a sense of purpose, and a feeling of wellbeing.

When leaders connect with their Ikigai, they bring an authenticity and energy that radiates throughout their teams. They lead with clarity, and this sense of alignment not only fuels their own passion but inspires others.


Ubuntu: Leading with Empathy and Connection

Ubuntu, (Zulu pronunciation: [ùɓúntʼù]) is an African term meaning "humanity", often translated into “I am because we are”.  This African philosophy teaches us that leadership is a communal responsibility. It reminds us that leadership thrives when grounded in empathy, mutual respect, and shared purpose.

Leaders who embrace Ubuntu see their success as interdependent with the success of their team and community.

Ubuntu-based leaders prioritize collaboration, inclusivity, and trust. They lead by serving others, creating environments where diversity is celebrated and everyone’s voice is heard. In my practice, I help leaders embrace Ubuntu by encouraging them to see their teams not just as employees but as human beings with unique contributions.

Leaders who actively listen, show vulnerability, and foster collaboration, create resilient and innovative teams. As Desmond Tutu said, “My humanity is caught up, is inextricably bound up, in yours.” When leaders embody Ubuntu, they create cultures where every person has a voice and people feel valued and empowered to thrive.   

As Gandhi said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Leaders who lead with Dharma see their role as a moral duty to guide others toward what benefits the whole.

Dharma: Leading with Integrity and Responsibility

Dharma (धर्म) is an ancient Indian concept of righteous duty and ethical responsibility. In leadership, it calls us to lead with integrity, making decisions that align with moral clarity and long-term impact, not just immediate gains.

Through my work, I’ve seen leaders wrestle with the tension between what’s easy and what’s right. Dharma reminds us that leadership is not about power or status but about responsibility—to our teams, organisations, and society. Leaders aligned with Dharma act with fairness and transparency, ensuring their choices serve the greater good, even when difficult.

The Intersection: Ikigai, Ubuntu, and Dharma—A New Leadership Paradigm

When we integrate the principles of Ikigai, Ubuntu, and Dharma – all circular by nature - we discover a holistic approach to leadership. This model emphasizes human connection, purpose, empathy, and responsibility, transcending the pursuit of profit and focuses on the well-being of individuals, teams, and the broader community.

Leaders who live from Ikigai lead with purpose, passion and clarity. Those who practice Ubuntu foster trust, empathy and collaboration. And those who embody Dharma lead with integrity and a sense of duty. These principles create not just high-performing teams but long-lasting, values-aligned cultures that inspire and create sustainable impact.

A Leadership Compass for the Future

As we look toward the future, we find ourselves at a crossroads. Our choices as leaders will shape not only the trajectory of our businesses but the well-being of our communities and the planet. The need for conscious leadership has never been more urgent.

As you continue to evolve as a leader, consider what principles guide your daily thoughts and actions.  For me, the timeless wisdom of Ikigai, Ubuntu, and Dharma serve as a compass on my leadership journey. These principles may also help you navigate both known and unknown challenges, making decisions that are grounded in values and connected to the greater good.

In the words of Maya Angelou, “When you know better, you do better.” By leading with these guiding principles, you’re not just making decisions for today—you’re building a legacy that shapes a brighter future for everyone.


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If you’re ready to lead with purpose, connection, and integrity, I invite you to continue this journey with me. Reach me via my website or LinkedIn.

Together, let’s shape the future of leadership.

Chantal Patruno