In this episode, we explore forgiveness as an essential yet often overlooked capacity in leadership. Inspired by the updated Inner Development Goals 2.0, which now include forgiveness, we ask what it really means to forgive in a corporate context — and why it might be one of the strongest acts a leader can take.
We look at how resentment and hurts drain energy, how unresolved conflicts hold teams back, and how forgiveness can help rebuild trust and release energy for growth and collaboration. And we challenge the idea that forgiveness is a sign of weakness — and rather requires strength, self-awareness, and courage.

Key insights

• Forgiveness is not weakness.
  It takes strength and courage to face what happened, to let go of anger, and to move forward.
• Forgiveness and accountability can coexist.
  You can forgive someone and still hold them accountable — forgiveness doesn’t mean there are no consequences.
• Healing relationships frees up energy.
  Letting go of grudges restores focus and vitality — for individuals, teams, and the whole organization.
• Forgiveness can help make change successful.
  Acknowledging past disappointments, frustrations and hurts is essential before a team can truly move forward.

Reflection questions

• What makes you feel hurt, what makes you angry, and what creates negative feelings?
• If you are in the process of forgiving, reflect on what might this be teaching you? And even if you are still feeling hurt, how might you use this pain as a positive force for growth? 
• Where might you still be holding a grudge — maybe over many years — and is it time to forgive? And who do you need to forgive?
• Is there anybody who you might have hurt? And isn't it time to actively approach that person and reach out?
• As a leader, how can you be more observant of your team’s emotions and the impact of your own behavior?
• How can forgiveness become a force for learning and growth in your team?

Introduction to The Inner Development Goals (IDG)

Our episode introducing the IDG: https://podcast.secondcrackleadership.com/1659493/episodes/10816920

More information related to the IDG at innerdevelopmentgoals.org

About Second Crack
More information about us and our work is available on our website: secondcrackleadership.com. Contact us now to explore how we can support your leadership development in a company-wide initiative or with individual executive coaching: [email protected].
 
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Martin Aldergård
Gerrit Pelzer