AFLA Conference Archives-Keynote: Heliotropic Leadership

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Dr. Harry Cohen's presentation on heliotropic leadership emphasizes the profound impact of being uplifting and positive in both personal and professional lives. He shares his journey from a psychologist to an executive coach, highlighting his philosophy encapsulated in the phrase, "Be the sun, not the salt." This metaphor advises individuals to embody qualities that are sustainable and life-giving rather than detrimental. Through simple kindness and authenticity, one can significantly affect their environment and relationships.<br /><br />Dr. Cohen insists the practice isn't about learning new skills but rather reinforcing innate positive behaviors. He exemplifies this through personal anecdotes, including a story where choosing compassion over irritation led to helping a distressed woman and provided a powerful learning moment for his daughter. Moreover, he argues that maintaining this attitude, even amid life's challenges, like his own cancer journey, remains crucial.<br /><br />He also stresses the contagious nature of behaviors, wherein positivity replicates and boosts team morale and productivity, contrary to the harmful effects of negativity. To manage negativity, particularly from influential figures or leaders, Dr. Cohen suggests a servant leadership approach—creating a nurturing and supportive environment that brings out the best in others.<br /><br />Ultimately, the session's core takeaway is the transformative power of consistently choosing to uplift others, a choice that benefits oneself and amplifies a positive ripple effect across one's community.

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Dr. Harry Cohen
Session Sponsored by Holman
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Meta Tag

Location Tucson, AZ

Year 2022

Keywords

heliotropic leadership

uplifting

positive impact

executive coach

Be the sun, not the salt

kindness

authenticity

servant leadership

contagious positivity

transformative power

Tucson, AZ

2022