Tackling the Executive Existential Crisis

In the current landscape of ethical unpredictability and leadership challenges, the imperative for cultivating authentic leaders is more pronounced than ever. This article delves into the critical role that business schools play in developing leaders who are not only competent but also embody integrity and a profound sense of ethical responsibility. By integrating existential principles into leadership curricula, such as those espoused by Jean-Paul Sartre and Søren Kierkegaard, educational institutions can promote a deep-seated reflection among future leaders about personal values, responsibility, and the meaning of their actions. This article explores innovative approaches to bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, highlighting programs at Lancaster University Management School that foster self-awareness, critical thinking, and ethically driven decision-making. This framework not only enhances personal growth but also prepares leaders to positively impact their organizations and society at large.