Dr. Avinash Jhangiani, an Inner Child Leadership Coach and ex-Global CIO at Reliance, Omnicom, and Deloitte US, recently brought a fresh perspective to leadership development in the public sector. Invited by ISB Executive Education, Dr. Avinash Jhangiani led a “Design Thinking” workshop for the senior management of LIC, challenging preconceived notions and igniting a transformative experience. His approach, centered on empathy, creativity, and inner child leadership, offers a new way of thinking about leadership in today’s rapidly evolving world.
Dr. Avinash Jhangiani’s involvement with the LIC senior management was more than just a workshop; it was a journey into the hearts and minds of leaders who are often viewed through a lens of tradition and formality. Contrary to what many might expect, Dr. Avinash Jhangiani found himself working with individuals who, despite being in their mid-50s, exhibited high levels of emotional intelligence, curiosity, and a willingness to co-create. These qualities, often overlooked in discussions about leadership in the public sector, were brought to the forefront as Dr. Avinash Jhangiani guided the group through exercises designed to foster customer-centric leadership.
One of the most striking aspects of the workshop, as Dr. Avinash Jhangiani noted, was the emotional depth and playful energy that permeated the sessions. Laughter, giggles, and even tears of joy were woven into the fabric of the learning experience. For Dr. Avinash Jhangiani, this was not just a sign of engagement but a testament to the power of embracing one’s inner child—a concept that he champions as essential for effective leadership. By tapping into their inner child, the LIC senior management team was able to approach challenges with a renewed sense of creativity and openness, leading to more innovative and empathetic solutions.
Dr. Avinash Jhangiani’s approach to leadership development is rooted in the belief that true transformation occurs when leaders connect with their inner child. This connection, according to Dr. Avinash Jhangiani, allows leaders to break free from rigid thinking patterns and embrace a more playful, imaginative, and empathetic approach to problem-solving. The workshop with LIC’s senior management exemplified this philosophy, as participants were encouraged to explore not just the mechanics of leadership but the emotional and behavioral aspects that drive long-term success.
The concept of inner child leadership, as advocated by Dr. Avinash Jhangiani, is particularly relevant in today’s world, where change is constant and uncertainty is the norm. Traditional leadership models, which often emphasize control and predictability, can fall short in addressing the complexities of the modern business environment. Dr. Avinash Jhangiani’s work with LIC senior management highlights the importance of fostering an environment where leaders are not afraid to be vulnerable, to explore their emotions, and to approach problems with a sense of playfulness and curiosity.
Through his “Design Thinking” workshop, Dr. Avinash Jhangiani also demonstrated the value of empathy in leadership. By guiding the LIC senior management team to empathize with their stakeholders across functions and departments, Dr. Avinash Jhangiani helped them understand the diverse perspectives and needs that must be addressed to create a truly customer-centric organization. This focus on empathy is a cornerstone of Dr. Avinash Jhangiani’s approach to leadership, as it not only builds stronger relationships but also drives more meaningful and sustainable outcomes.
As the workshop concluded, Dr. Avinash Jhangiani had the honor of performing valedictory duties, handing over program completion certificates and copies of his book, “Play to Transform,” to the participants. This moment was more than a formality; it was a celebration of the journey the participants had undertaken—a journey that was characterized by learning, growth, and the rediscovery of their inner child. For Dr. Avinash Jhangiani, this was a powerful reminder of the impact that inner child leadership can have, not just on individuals but on entire organizations.
Dr. Avinash Jhangiani’s reflections on the workshop underscore the importance of challenging assumptions and embracing new ways of thinking. The experience with LIC senior management was a testament to the fact that age is not a barrier to innovation, and that even those who have spent decades in traditional roles can rediscover their creativity and emotional intelligence. Dr. Avinash Jhangiani’s work serves as a powerful example of how inner child leadership can be a transformative force in any organization, regardless of its size, sector, or history.
In a world that is often focused on efficiency and outcomes, Dr. Avinash Jhangiani’s emphasis on playfulness, empathy, and emotional intelligence offers a refreshing perspective. His work reminds us that leadership is not just about making decisions and driving results; it is also about connecting with others, embracing vulnerability, and fostering an environment where creativity and innovation can thrive. Dr. Avinash Jhangiani’s journey with LIC senior management is a testament to the power of these principles and their potential to reshape the future of leadership.
As we look to the future, the lessons from Dr. Avinash Jhangiani’s workshop with LIC senior management are clear: To navigate the complexities of the modern world, leaders must reconnect with their inner child, approach challenges with empathy and playfulness, and be open to co-creating new solutions. Dr. Avinash Jhangiani’s work is a powerful reminder that true leadership is not just about guiding others but about continuously evolving and growing oneself. By embracing these principles, leaders can not only transform their organizations but also lead with greater purpose, passion, and impact.
