Creative Change Leadership: About Mastering Holistic Leadership in a Time of Disruption

We are living in a uniquely disruptive age, one that demands a fundamental reassessment of leadership. The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics is redefining the very essence of human purpose. Simultaneously, the established global order is dissolving, with the world increasingly divided into competing spheres of influence. In this era of dismantled norms and emerging structures, shaped by both human and artificial intelligence, a complex present foreshadows an even more challenging future. To navigate the complexities of AI, global conflict, and economic disparity, a holistic leadership model is required, one that must prioritize not only organizational efficiency but also the well-being of humanity and the planet.

This book outlines the characteristics and new competencies for leaders to be able to navigate in today’s world, and lead creative and lasting change. Most leadership models are about doing things (crafting a vision, communicating, directing and achieving outcomes). But those models were developed for more stable times. The world is different now, and a new, holistic leadership model is needed to set creative leaders apart, which is not just about doing, but also about being. It’s about who the leader is as a person and how he/she shows up; how and why people are motivated to follow this leader, to be engaged in the vision, and to trust that what they are being led to is good.

Lawrence Chong is the co-founder and CEO of Consulus, a creative change consultancy headquartered in Singapore and operating in 23 countries. Jim Funk is a Senior Global Fellow at Consulus, where he contributes to leadership development and organizational transformation initiatives.