Principals' Digest: Gracious Leadership 

Transforming Leadership Through “Holding Space for Others”

As a school leader, you have the unique opportunity to shift the culture of your school from a rigid, directive approach to one of inclusive and gracious collaboration. This transformation can be achieved by embracing the practice of “Holding Space for Others.”

What Does It Mean to Hold Space?

Holding space involves creating an environment where every staff member, student, and parent feels heard, respected, and valued. It’s about listening to understand rather than to respond and allowing others to express themselves freely without fear of judgment. This approach fosters trust, emotional safety, and a stronger sense of community within your school.

Six Steps to Practice Holding Space                  

Plan Inclusive Meetings

Honour the diversity of your team by setting clear norms that encourage participation from everyone. Start by acknowledging the different perspectives present and provide space for clarifications and contributions.

Practice Radical Curiosity

Listen actively and with intent. When someone shares their experience, echo back what you hear to ensure understanding. This builds deeper connections and shows that you value their input.

Be Conscious of Conflict Orientation

Understand your own and others’ approaches to conflict. Recognize that conflicts can be managed constructively by being aware of and addressing underlying emotions and reactions.

Promote Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Support diversity initiatives at your school by implementing policies that address the unique challenges faced by individuals from different backgrounds. Celebrate cultural differences and educate your team on implicit biases.

Balance Participation

Notice who speaks up and who doesn’t in meetings. Encourage quieter members to share their thoughts, ensuring everyone has a voice in the conversation.

Explore Your Own Story

Reflect on your own experiences to build empathy with others. Recognize that understanding your own journey can help you connect more meaningfully with those around you.

Core Principles of Holding Space

1. Value Emotional Safety: Create an atmosphere where individuals feel safe to express their true thoughts and feelings.
2. Practice Radical Humility: Approach each interaction with the understanding that every perspective is valuable.
3. Engage in Active Listening: Listen with the intent to fully understand, giving your full attention to the speaker.
4. Practice Acceptance: Accept others as they are, fostering a sense of belonging and respect.
5. Try Being Nonjudgmental: Suspend judgment and keep an open mind in every interaction.
6. Demonstrate Compassion: Show genuine care and concern for others, inspiring trust and loyalty.

Leading with Gracious Assertiveness

By adopting these practices, you’ll cultivate a more inclusive and supportive school environment. Set the tone in your meetings and daily interactions by modelling empathy, active listening, and nonjudgment. Encourage your team to embrace these behaviours as well.

Effective leadership isn’t just about making decisions—it’s about creating a space where everyone feels empowered to contribute. As you hold space for others, you’ll see your school culture thrive, leading to stronger relationships, better communication, and a more united school community.

Embrace the power of holding space and watch your leadership—and your school—flourish.

Adapted from Yasmin Davidds: “Are You a Gracious Leader?” in Chief Executive