Why Joy Makes You a Better Leader
As a leader, you’re constantly navigating challenges, managing people, and striving to make the right decisions. Amid the demands of leadership, one quality stands out as a true game-changer: joy.
Joy isn’t always the first trait that comes to mind when you think of leadership. After all, leadership is often associated with responsibility, decision-making, and even struggle. But what if I told you that joy—something that might not come naturally to everyone—could actually be the secret weapon to unlocking your full potential as a leader?
I’ll be honest: joy isn’t my natural disposition. I’m introspective, a bit of an over-thinker, and I tend to focus on how things can be better rather than celebrating what’s already working. But over time, I’ve learned that joy is something worth cultivating. It’s a skill—something you can practice and develop—and as a leader, it’s worth committing to becoming a disciple of joy.
Joy is Jet Fuel for Your Brain
When we think of fuel, we often imagine the things that drive us—energy, focus, and determination. But did you know that joy is like jet fuel for your brain?
Research shows that when you experience joy, your brain functions at its highest capacity. Your thinking becomes faster, clearer, and more creative. You’re able to problem-solve more effectively and process information more holistically.
In the hustle of leadership, we can easily get bogged down by stress, deadlines, and complex problems. But when joy is present, it activates the brain's reward system, helping you stay sharp and energized. You think better, process information more efficiently, and approach challenges with a clear mind.
Joy also helps you become more others-focused. Instead of getting stuck in your own head, you’re able to step back, see the bigger picture, and make decisions that benefit your team or organization in the long run.
Joy Increases Relational Intelligence
Now, here’s where joy really shines: it enhances your relational intelligence.
As leaders, we are constantly balancing competing priorities—what’s best for the many versus what’s best for the individual. In these moments of tension, it’s easy to slip into decision-making that feels transactional or impersonal. But when joy is present, our relational intelligence goes up a notch.
When you’re joyful, you are more relationally aware. You’re better at reading the room, understanding the needs of your team, and connecting with people on a deeper level. You’re more empathetic, patient, and in tune with the emotional dynamics at play.
This relational awareness makes a significant difference in your decision-making. Whether you’re delivering tough news or giving feedback, joy enables you to approach these situations with wisdom, sensitivity, and respect for the people involved.
Ultimately, leaders with high relational intelligence are able to lead with both heart and head—making tough decisions while maintaining trust and connection with their team.
Joy Attracts
If you’ve ever been around someone who exudes joy, you know exactly what I mean when I say: joy attracts.
Who doesn’t want to be around joy? It’s contagious. It’s like the difference between peace at rest and peace at play. Joy creates an environment where people feel comfortable, open, and eager to engage. It’s magnetic.
Leaders who embody joy are naturally more approachable, likable, and inspiring. People are drawn to them—not because of their position or title, but because of the energy they bring to the table. Joy creates connection, and connection is one of the most powerful forces in leadership.
And this isn’t just about creating a pleasant atmosphere. The energy you bring to your leadership impacts your team’s performance, morale, and cohesion. When joy is present, people feel valued, motivated, and supported, and this leads to greater collaboration and success.
Committing to Joy as a Leader
So, how do we foster joy in our leadership?
If joy isn’t your natural disposition (like me), don’t worry. The beauty of joy is that it’s something you can learn and intentionally create. It’s about making a commitment to not only see the good around you, but to actively nurture and celebrate it. It’s about shifting your mindset, practicing gratitude, and seeking out moments that bring you joy—no matter how small they may seem.
Leaders who commit to joy build stronger relationships, make better decisions, and create cultures of positivity and collaboration. And in a world that often feels heavy with challenges, that joy becomes a powerful and essential asset.
True joy, though, isn’t something we can generate on our own—it comes from Jesus. As He says in John 15:11, "These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full." Jesus offers us a joy that transcends circumstances and strengthens our leadership, empowering us to lead with peace, purpose, and love.
As a leader, your joy doesn’t just benefit you—it’s a gift to those around you. It’s a source of energy, connection, and inspiration that can propel your team and organization to new heights.
Joy is your jet fuel. Use it wisely, and watch how it transforms your leadership.
