Becoming ATHENA: Eight Principles of Enlightened Leadership
If you don’t know much about MI ATHENA, or the ATHENA model in general — I’m glad you found your way here! The ATHENA Leadership Model (ALM), created by Michigander Martha Mayhood Mertz, is all about the characteristics and qualities that make-up an effective, motivational, and impactful leader no matter the gender, but specifically female leaders. When Martha realized that the Lansing political scene seemed to be a “boys’ club,” she intentionally created the ATHENA program — an opportunity for women to gather, learn from each other and become unapologetic leaders. All her life lessons, and the culminating history that led to ATHENA can be found in her book, Becoming ATHENA: Eight Principles of Enlightened Leadership.
The eight principles of enlightened leadership as outlined by Martha include:
- Live authentically – Leaders know their values and remain true to them.
- Learn constantly – Leaders seek knowledge.
- Advocate fiercely – Leaders champion what they believe is right.
- Act courageously – Leaders dare.
- Foster collaboration – Leaders welcome others to the work of leadership.
- Build relationships – Leaders emerge, empower and trust.
- Give back – Leaders serve.
- Celebrate – Leaders remember and rejoice.
The above principles fall into three categories: how people understand and develop themselves as leaders, how ATHENA leaders live out their convictions and how they can embrace and encourage others through their leadership. Each principle is critical to the ALM, but some characteristics resonate more with each person. For me, I have a connection with the Learning principle as learning is not only crucial for an understanding of my job, but it also allows me to mentor others. The MI ATHENA community is strong because each member brings their own experience and knowledge of one of the principles to the table. Which quality is one you resonate with or have a specific strength in?
These qualities are discussed thoroughly in Martha’s book, so be sure to check it out and be on the look-out for an updated version coming out soon! In the meantime, these characteristics are sprinkled throughout MI ATHENA’s programming series — so, commit yourself to learning more and plugging-in! Help make our state’s community stronger, invest in yourself and others and participate in MI ATHENA events.
To purchase Martha’s Becoming ATHENA, click here. If you have questions or would like more information on MI ATHENA, please contact Leah Robinson at lrobinson@michamber.com.