Last fall, we started our “Living with Purpose” series in our newsletter to explore servant leadership. This approach to leadership focuses on putting the needs of others first—our consumers, employees, and the whole community.

There are seven key traits of a good servant leader: being a person of character, putting people first, being a skilled communicator (communicating well), being a compassionate collaborator (working well with others), having foresight (thinking ahead), being a systems thinker (understanding how systems work), and leading with moral authority (leading with honesty and fairness).

This month, we’re talking about what it means to be a Systems Thinker.

What is a Systems Thinker?

A systems thinker understands that every decision affects the whole organization. They think about how people will react to change and help make transitions as smooth as possible.

This skill is useful in everyday life, too. For example:

  • A parent might explain to their children why family rules are changing so they understand the reasons behind new expectations.
  • A manager might talk with their team about upcoming workplace changes to make sure everyone feels included and supported.

Systems thinkers are good at solving complex problems because they see how different parts of an organization are connected. They lead by example, showing flexibility and resilience during changes.

Making a Difference Through Systems Thinking

Great leaders help others see the bigger picture. They show how each person’s work makes a difference. For example, a nonprofit director might share success stories to inspire employees and remind them why their work matters.

At HCO, Keri, our Licensing and Policy Director, is a great example of a systems thinker. She learns how different systems work, applies that knowledge to HCO, and creates processes that make work easier while keeping a person-centered approach. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she helped HCO adjust to challenges. She also ensures HCO has the right number of licensed beds and supports key teams like Training, Recruitment and Retention, and Reception by creating strong, lasting systems.

Why Systems Thinking Matters

Thinking in systems helps us be better leaders at work and in daily life. When we consider how decisions affect everyone, involve others in the process, and connect our actions to a bigger purpose, we can make a lasting impact. Let’s commit to thinking this way to create a stronger, more connected community!