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Leading from Behind

Applying Buddhist Psychology in Grooming Followers Toward Leadership

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Handbook of Global Leadership and Followership

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Abstract

This chapter provides those who aspire to lead from a non-authoritarian stance some important support instruments toward finding fulfillment and understanding in doing so. The chapter first lays a foundation by offering some highlights in the life of the Buddha, followed by an elaboration on Vipassana or insight meditation, which was the technique used to acquire enlightenment and lay the foundation for the Buddha’s subsequent teachings. After a concise evaluation of the two main streams of contemporary Buddhism, Theravada and Mahayana, the chapter explains the Four Noble Truths, one of the most profound insights in Buddhist psychology. Additionally, the chapter also discusses the critical aspect of consciousness as a pillar to mindful performance. To ensure a broad understanding of utilizing Buddhist psychology, the chapter discusses some important advantages, but also underscores some points of caution to consider. In the final section, the Seven-Point mind training is discussed, as an exercise to maintain humility, understand the highs and lows of life, and extract a positive lesson from each.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Woodbury University, Burbank, CA, USA

    Joan F. Marques

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  1. Joan F. Marques
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Correspondence to Joan F. Marques .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. School of Business, Woodbury University, Burbank, CA, USA

    Joan F. Marques

  2. Pepperdine University, Los Angeles, CA, USA

    June Schmieder-Ramirez

  3. Robert Morris University, Moon, PA, USA

    Petros G. Malakyan

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Marques, J.F. (2023). Leading from Behind. In: Marques, J.F., Schmieder-Ramirez, J., Malakyan, P.G. (eds) Handbook of Global Leadership and Followership. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-21544-5_2

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