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S02-INT09: Eric Kaufmann: The Making of the Hero's Journey 0

Apr 20, 2016

"Really, what moved me to write this is, what does it take to exist within a well-lived life?"

Eric Kaufmann has coached and counseled executives since 1999. He has identified common themes and patterns that underlie what he's identified as "Leadership as a Hero's Journey." The essential four traits that he's written extensively about include:

1) FOCUS
2) COURAGE
3) GRIT
4) FAITH

"Focus is what am I creating... what I create is somewhat related to my focus and somewhat related to 'stuff'..."

In this engaging interview, Martin and Eric discuss the philosophy that underlies much of Eric's thinking and writing these days—particularly the four virtues as outlined in his book. The two kick things off as they exchange some fun anecdotes about family life with two daughters of the same ages (13 and 15).

Eric's book is being re-released by a new publisher under a slightly different name, "The Four Virtues of a Leader."

In this episode, Eric covers:

How he defines a HERO
The three things each hero is called to do
Who a hero really is and the essential traits
How he defines each of the FOUR essential virtues
Where to put your attention and focus
What co-creation really is
The essence of responsibility
Why leaving the comfort zone is essential
The 3 things, according to EK, that everyone fears
The highest form of maturity and why a leader is always one who relies on allies
The essence of GRIT and what constitutes GRIT
The fundamental impermanence of life
The significance of shedding past traits, habits and identities to make room for new roles and identities
How he defines "success" (Here's a hint, see Earl Nightengale)
His most important habits
How he coaches and cultivates his personal mindset during "tough days"
The great Hebrew saying, "When you change your spot you change your perspective"
Why ephemerality could be the theme of the episode
The ability to shed old habits, skills and identities and why it's critical for growth
And so much more!

“If I am buying into my boss is a jerk, then I am now participating in that narrative."

“Real leaders work with and through others."

Eric’s diverse and varied life is a commitment to understanding and teaching wisdom. The crucible of Eric’s journey contains 13 years of leadership consulting, management at Fortune 100 firms, degrees in business and psychology, a quarter century of Zen practice, living in Israel and South Africa, teaching as a Master Scuba Diving instructor, and working as a certified hypnotherapist. Connect with Eric Kaufmann on LinkedIn.

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