Distractions are everywhere. From the constant buzz of our smartphones to the endless flow of information online, it’s easy to lose sight of what really matters. In a thought-provoking talk at the Amsterdam Business Forum, Elke Geraerts highlighted this dilemma, reminding us that courageous leadership requires more than just intelligence and skills.

“If we want to grow our leadership, we need courage,” says Elke. “And courage is something you can train. It demands focus, authenticity, and deep connection.”

These three lessons will help you strengthen your courage and become a more courageous leader.

Lesson 1: The automatic vs. the authentic pilot

Our brains operate using two systems (as described by Daniel Kahneman):

1. System 1 (Automatic): fast, impulsive, and running on autopilot. This system makes snap decisions, jumps to conclusions, and resists anything new.
2. System 2 (Deliberate): slow, thoughtful, and requiring mental energy. This system engages when we make complex decisions and think deeply.

Here’s the key point: most of us spend 90% of our time in System 1. However, as leaders, our roles demand much more thoughtful decision-making, far beyond just 10% of our time.

• Key takeaway: To become authentic leaders, we must learn to actively engage System 2, the "authentic pilot," which allows us to listen genuinely, make bold decisions, and grow.
  
  

Lesson 2: Focus is the new IQ for leadership

In a world full of distractions, the ability to direct our intelligence toward what truly matters is a superpower. However, many of us have fallen for the myth of multitasking, believing we can juggle multiple tasks effectively. The truth? Our brains can’t actually multitask. What we call multitasking is really task-switching, which slows us down, increases mistakes, and raises stress levels.

• Key takeaway: Focus isn’t about doing more; it's about being intentional and prioritizing what truly matters. Start your day with the big task, and the rest will follow. In other words: when going after an elephant, don’t get distracted by chasing rabbits.

Lesson 3: Connection is the new EQ for effective leaders

In today’s hyper-connected yet lonely world, true connection has become rare. Elke argues that connection begins with self-awareness. These five daily reflection questions can help you maintain it:

1. What did I do today that energized me?
2. What did I do today that someone else appreciated?
3. What made me feel present today?
4. What distracted me from living the life I want?
5. What small change will I make tomorrow?

Answering these questions regularly helps you connect with your authentic self, leading to more genuine interactions with others. When you show your authenticity, others feel safe to open up, building trust and a sense of belonging.

• Key takeaway: Authentic connection starts with understanding what makes us tick. Only by connecting deeply with ourselves can we form meaningful connections with others.
  
  

The future of leadership: balancing focus and connection

The future belongs to those who can balance focus (the new IQ) with authentic connection (the new EQ). Leadership isn’t about doing more or staying busy; it’s about being present, intentional, and grounded. By choosing focus over distraction and connection over isolation, we can lead courageously in an ever-changing world.

So, how will you deepen your focus and strengthen your connections?