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BEING TOUGH VERSUS BEING EMPATHETIC
A leader must be tough enough to make difficult, bottom-line decisions that serve the overall needs of the organization. Being tough involves being decisive and unafraid to take a stand in the face of public opinion or strong resistance. And you must also make such decisions with sensitivity to the impact and consequences for others in the organization. Failure to do so can erode loyalty and trust, as well as morale and motivation—at the very time when you need them most.
On the other hand, the ability to be empathetic encourages loyalty and trust—even understanding of and support for difficult decisions. Being empathetic involves taking others’ perspectives into account when making decisions and taking action. ...
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