Leadership & Playfulness

I’ve often rolled my eyes when people talk about listening to their inner child. But during the first evening session at Goals House during hashtag#ClimateWeek, I didn't.

Such wonderful insights from people actively and successfully engaging with children—such as Steve Burns, creator and host of “Blue's Clues”; Ellen Doherty, CCO of Fred Rogers Productions; Suzie Hicks, author and creator of “The Climate Chick”; and moderator Sage Lenier, founder of Futureline.

Each of them stressed how important empathy and a sense of wonder are if you’re going to be a leader—especially now, as we work our way through the overlapping political and climate crises.

The conversation brought back to mind one of the most fun (and perhaps strangest) connections I’ve ever helped make—creating the opportunity for “Ulitsa Sezam,” the Russian version of “Sesame Street.” We worked with the Children's Television Workshop to connect them with some of the world’s most talented claymation artists.

As an exercise in bridging differences, finding common ground, and listening carefully, it was a challenge. And it was joyful. And strategic.

Lots of meetings on serious topics have taken place in the gilded halls of the Kremlin. But never before had Big Bird pencils been given in return for red pencils emblazoned with the word ‘Kremlin.’ A fair trade of pencils for pencils.

A big part of being a leader is being able to inspire, to generate enthusiasm, and to show what can be accomplished. And that needs more than a spreadsheet. Sometimes, the best way to lead through complexity is to remember how to play.