Byron's Babbles

While doing research for a book I’m writing I came across The Symposium by Plato. The research I am doing was related to “love” in the sense that I am a big proponent of leaders loving those they serve. And, since I believe everyone is a leader; we should all love everyone. I’m trying to articulate how to do that as a leader in the work I am doing. Anyway, The Symposium is Plato dialoging the speeches taking place at an ancient Athenian feast. Oh, to go back to 380B.C. and take part in that symposium. It was the whole idea of the symposium that prompted my post this morning. The symposium allowed nuanced and super-exploratory environments for deep intellectual discussion. Really, this is the format I strive to create with each of my leadership development gatherings.

What if all our discussions were like those of Socrates and Plato?

Leaders (all of us) can learn from having symposiums like Plato and Socrates in several ways. Firstly, symposiums provide a platform for open and intellectual discussions, allowing leaders to explore different perspectives and gain new insights. This can lead to more informed decision-making and the development of innovative solutions to complex problems.

Additionally, I love creating a safe place for the exchange of ideas among gathering participants. Leaders can benefit from engaging in dialogue with others who have diverse backgrounds and expertise, as this can challenge our own assumptions and broaden our understanding of various issues.

Furthermore, symposiums in their truest form, foster a collaborative and inclusive environment, where everyone’s opinions are respected and valued. This encourages teamwork and encourages leaders to listen to different viewpoints, promoting effective communication and fostering a sense of unity among participants.

Can’t you just imagine Phaedrus, Pausanias, Aristophanes, and Socrates, who all gave speeches at that Athenian feast, sharing their philosophies on love? Imagine that opportunity for leaders to network and build relationships with other influential individuals in their field. This can lead to valuable connections and collaborations that can enhance their leadership abilities and create opportunities for growth and development. It gives me goosebumps!

What is striking to me is how relevant all the dialogues still are today in one way or another. Are you hosting symposiums like Plato and Socrates that can help leaders expand their knowledge, improve their decision-making skills, foster collaboration, and build meaningful relationships within their communities?