The power of love in leadership

In early childhood education, we often speak about love in the context of our work with children—nurturing, supporting and guiding them with compassion. However, we rarely consider the power of love in our relationships with colleagues, teams and leaders. Yet, love—defined as a deep care and respect for one another—can be the essential force that breathes life into the workplace, offering connection and strengthening the fabric of our teams.

A Personal Journey with Teams and Leadership

Throughout my career, I have observed and experienced many types of relationships in the workplace. Sometimes, finding them confusing or even disheartening. Over time, I came to realise that the perfect ‘model’ leader or team does not exist. Just as each of us is human and imperfect, so too are the relationships we build. But this imperfection is not a flaw but an invitation to cultivate resilience, empathy and understanding.

So, what truly makes a difference in the teams and leaders that leave a lasting positive impact? The answer, I believe, lies in love—not romantic love, but a love that embraces care, respect and an earnest desire for one another’s success and wellbeing.

The Science Behind Love in the Workplace

Barbara Fredrickson, a leading researcher on emotions, describes love as a biological necessity, much like oxygen or nutrients. According to her research, love impacts our physical health, emotional wellbeing, and even the structure of our cells. In a workplace setting, this kind of love—the kind that fosters connection and mutual support—can transform our experiences and interactions. Love becomes the invisible thread that binds us, enhancing not only our individual wellbeing but also our collective strength as a team.

Imagine a workplace where people feel a genuine connection to one another. In such an environment, teams can navigate challenges with resilience, knowing they have each other’s backs. Colleagues are more likely to engage deeply, collaborate effectively and contribute positively. This sense of ‘being in it together’ shifts the focus from merely getting tasks done to building a community that supports each other.

Love as an Everyday Practice

In a society that often equates love with romance, we may hesitate to use the word ‘love’ in the workplace. However, if we redefine love as an appreciation for each other, it becomes clear that love is foundational to a healthy, thriving work environment. Some practical ways to foster love in early childhood education settings include:

• Reflect on Connections: Take time to appreciate the strengths and contributions of colleagues. Recognising the value each person brings can deepen mutual respect and understanding.

• Respond with Kindness and Empathy: Whether celebrating a colleague’s success or supporting them through challenges, kindness should guide our responses. Shared positive experiences can strengthen bonds and build trust.

• Be Present and Attuned: Listening actively and being fully present in conversations fosters a sense of connection and respect. When we are truly ‘with’ each other, we create moments of belonging and affirmation.

When Teams Lead with Love

When anchored in love, teams create a safe and gratifying environment where people feel encouraged to bring their whole selves to work. They are also more adaptable, open to new ideas and resilient in the face of adversity. Just as positive emotions broaden our perspectives, a culture of love in the workplace expands our capacity for growth, creativity and meaningful engagement.

Love allows us to hold each other up during hard times and celebrate together during joyful moments. This foundation of mutual support helps reduce stress, build resilience and create a culture where people want to contribute and excel. In essence, love allows us to see each other as more than just colleagues; we see each other as allies, supporters and friends.

Embracing Love as Leadership

True leadership is not just about managing tasks or directing teams; it’s about fostering a culture where every individual feels valued, respected and cared for. A leader who ‘leads with love’ focus on understanding their team’s needs, building genuine connections, and creating an inclusive and supportive environment.

Early childhood settings, where emotional labour is high, and relationships are central, can especially benefit from this approach. When educators feel loved and valued, they are likelier to be engaged, motivated and effective in their work with children. This kind of leadership—rooted in love—creates ripples that positively impact not only the team but also the children and families we serve.

A Call to Action: Cultivating Love in the Workplace

As we reflect on the role of love in our professional lives, let us be reminded of its transformative power. Love is not a distraction from productivity; it is the very fuel that drives us forward. A workplace that embraces love as a core value is one where people feel seen, valued, and inspired to do their best.

Let us challenge ourselves to bring love into our daily interactions at work, to connect with one another, to listen with empathy and to support each other unconditionally. By leading with love, we can create a culture of care that enriches the lives of everyone within our professional community.