Net Positive - Paul Polman
As someone who spends much of my time coaching leaders and organisations, the principles in Polman’s book resonated deeply with me. They reminded me that leadership is not just a role, but a responsibility—a responsibility to craft systems, cultures, and behaviours that enable others to thrive. But more than that, it is a responsibility to engage with the world in a way that ensures our actions contribute positively to the broader ecosystem. I’ve realised that the beauty of leadership lies not only in what we achieve but in the way we empower others to achieve alongside us.
Leadership: The Art of Empowerment and Interconnection
Leadership, at its core, is not about authority; it’s about empowerment. In my work, I am reminded daily that leadership should focus on cultivating an environment where people feel seen, heard, and valued. True leaders don’t just lead from the front; they create spaces for others to step into their own power, to lead with their unique strengths, and to contribute to a greater purpose.
The idea of being "net positive" naturally fits into this framework of leadership. To be a net positive leader means shifting the focus from personal accolades or short-term wins to the longer-term development of individuals, teams, and systems. It’s about enabling growth—not just for yourself, but for those you work with. What does it mean to create a culture where people feel that their contributions are valued, their ideas are heard, and their growth is nurtured? This approach to leadership doesn’t just yield business results—it transforms how people experience their work and their lives.
In leadership, the concept of beauty lies in creating harmony between individuals and systems, between purpose and practice. This is something I constantly work to integrate into my coaching. When you align people’s personal goals with the broader mission, you create something that is greater than the sum of its parts. And this alignment is where the true beauty of leadership emerges—when every action, every decision, and every interaction is an opportunity to contribute positively to the collective well-being.
Personal Growth: A Constant Practice of Contribution
In my own life, the pursuit of personal growth is never just for self-betterment—it is intrinsically linked to the impact I can have on others. The more I learn, the more I grow, the more I can give. And this giving is what truly defines personal growth. It is not an isolated journey but one that is deeply interwoven with the world around us.
When we focus on personal development with the intention to contribute, growth takes on a different dimension. It's not about accumulating knowledge for the sake of it but about applying that knowledge in ways that empower others. Whether it’s through listening, mentoring, or providing a space for others to flourish, personal growth becomes a tool for broader systemic change.
This concept connects beautifully with the ideas I encourage my clients to adopt in leadership. Personal growth should never be just for personal gain—it should always be viewed through the lens of how it can serve others. As I continue to expand my own knowledge and skills, I strive to do so with a mind and heart open to the impact I can have on my clients, colleagues, and communities. Growth, in this sense, is a shared experience—each insight I gain is an opportunity to lift those around me.
Systems: Shaping Environments That Enable Collective Flourishing
In both leadership and personal growth, the idea of systems plays a crucial role. The beauty of systemic thinking is that it recognises the interconnectedness of all parts of the system. When we address the root causes of challenges rather than just their symptoms, we have the power to create lasting, meaningful change. This is where the true net positive impact lies—not in addressing the immediate problem but in designing systems that foster long-term growth, sustainability, and equity.
In my work with organisations, this is a key focus. Organisations are living systems, and as such, they require careful attention to the structures and processes that support their functioning. It’s easy to get caught up in quick fixes or band-aid solutions, but systemic change requires us to take a step back and think about the larger picture. How do we design a culture that supports collaboration? How do we ensure that decision-making processes are transparent and inclusive? How do we create environments where people are motivated to contribute not just to the organisation’s bottom line but to the collective good?
These questions, though not easy to answer, are vital in creating a net positive impact. As leaders, we must create systems that support people in their development, that allow them to contribute meaningfully, and that are designed to adapt and grow over time. This, in turn, leads to an environment where success is not just measured in financial terms but in the richness of the relationships and outcomes we cultivate.
Giving Back: A Fundamental Part of the Leadership Journey
Finally, Polman’s message of giving back is perhaps the most vital in the net positive philosophy. Too often, we focus on what we can gain—whether it’s knowledge, success, or recognition—but the true measure of a life well-lived is in what we contribute. Giving back doesn’t necessarily mean large gestures or grand acts of charity (although those are certainly important); it can be as simple as offering our time, sharing our expertise, or lending a listening ear. The impact of these small acts of giving can often far exceed our expectations.
I try to bring this principle into my coaching practice, reminding my clients that the greatest leaders are those who are willing to give, to share, and to empower others to succeed. Giving back is not just a moral imperative—it is a source of strength. It allows us to connect more deeply with others, to build relationships based on trust, and to create a sense of shared purpose.
Reflecting on the net positive philosophy, I see how it resonates not just with my work but with my approach to life. Whether in leadership, personal growth, or systemic change, the aim is always to contribute more than we take. The beauty of this approach lies in its ability to create environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, to grow, and to contribute in meaningful ways.
As I continue to reflect on how I live out these principles, I find myself continuously striving to align my actions with the greater good. It’s not a perfect journey, but it’s a worthwhile one. In the end, it’s about creating a life that is not only successful in the traditional sense but that leaves a lasting, positive impact on the world around us. And if we can have a little fun along the way, all the better.