The 4 Quadrants of Leadership/Organizational Wholeness…

Posted on November 20, 2010 by Ronald T. Brown, Ph.D.

HEAD QUADRANT:
It is with our head that we think, decide, see, and speak. Therefore, the "Head" quadrant has to do with the strategic aspects of an organization. This quadrant pertains to issues such as: executive leadership; strategic planning; policies; politics; structure; knowledge management; and so on. The symbolic person, or “archetype,” best associated with the Head quadrant is the “King” who exercises overall leadership and sets/enforces policies, standards, and organizational structures.

HANDS QUADRANT:
With our Hands we do physical work, take hold of things, touch our environment, and make signals to others. Therefore, the “Hands” quadrant has to do with the operational functions of an organization, such as: operations and operational systems; organizational capabilities and human resources; funds development and resourcing; strategic metrics to monitor progress; performance management; and project management. The symbolic person best associated with the Hands quadrant is the "Warrior" who drives forward with confident strength and competence to achieve objectives.

HEART QUADRANT:
It is with our Heart that we care for others (and ourselves), build people up, and join around common values. Therefore, the "Heart" quadrant has to do with the nurturing, relational and development forms of the organization such as: nurturing relationships and community; training and education; leadership development; mentoring; networking; teamwork and team development; and, spiritual formation. The symbolic person best associated with the Heart quadrant is the "Lover" who cares deeply for people and for their development and well-being.

HEROIC QUADRANT:
Our Heroic nature reaches out to the transformational aspects of the organization. This quadrant pertains to aspects such as: mission and deep purpose; vision for the future; heroic action and courageous goals; the deep stories, myths, and symbols that establish our identity; organizational culture; and new ways of thinking and working (innovation). The symbolic person associated with the Heroic quadrant is the "Prophet" who catalyzes deep change and transformation through a powerful sense of purpose and meaning.
 

** The FOUR QUADRANTS and PERFORMANCE:

Note it is mostly in the Lower 2 Quadrants – the Heart and Heroic Quadrants – where people get refreshed, strengthened, inspired and energized. The Lower Quadrants have to do with what motivates and builds people up, whereas the Upper 2 Quadrants have to do with the ability and systems to get things done. When Ability and Motivation are effectively combined, then you get Powerful Performance. Hence, the formula: Ability x Motivation = Performance

** As represented by these 4 Quadrants, healthy organizations (and teams) pursue a balanced set of individuals & initiatives which support both “wholeness” AND “effectiveness.”

(Model developed by my good friend Greg Boyer, PhD)