Empathy in Leadership: A Lesson from DJ Daniel’s Inspiring Story

Several weeks ago, I saw something quite troubling.  During the speech to joint congress, a young brain cancer survivor was acknowledged.  His name is DJ Daniel.  This young boy is battling brain cancer.  In 2018, he was given 5 months to live which is 7 years ago.  DJ’s dream is become a police officer.  On this night, DJ was made a Secret Service agent.  DJ’s eye simply lit up.  What a human-interest story!

However, there were a group of our political leaders who chose NOT to stand or give DJ recognition of his battle.  As an American and a Leadership Coach, I was stunned!  How could not stand and applaud this young man?  I did not realize that battling cancer was a partisan issue. 

In my coaching of leaders, empathy is one of the areas that is discussed.  Demonstrating and understanding another person is one of the tenements of Emotional Intelligence.  Why didn’t many of our so-called political leaders decided NOT to stand and acknowledge DJ?  We do not know.  These political leaders will not answer this question.  For me, I emailed my senators and congressman asking this very question.  I am still awaiting an answer.  It is sad and disappointing situation.  I thought we were better than this.  To the political leaders who did not stand and clap for DJ, shame on you.  Where was your empathy and compassion?

For leaders, this is a prime example on how your leadership brand can be negatively impacted.  People want to work for leaders who display empathy and compassion.  People NEED to know that you are human.  All your actions have consequences.  I ask for a call to action to the leaders out there.  Model empathy and compassion and show our political leaders how it is done.