August is the beginning of the holiday season in Portugal, and for most of you, it means some rest or, at least, the will for it! However, today I would like to talk to you about someone who never rests. He is not a Superman, but since last Monday, he has transformed Lisbon into the “Capital of the World”: Pope Francis.

Francis, the name he chose, is inspired by Francis of Assisi, one of the most well know Saints of the Church, known for his love for the Planet and the People. Francis (of Assisi) was the son of a rich textile merchant in the city of Assisi, Italy. Notwithstanding, he renounced his parents’ wealth and decided to dedicate his life to the poor. In fact, he died poor, but with a heart full of joy.

Inspired by this character, Pope Francis launched, back in 2019, a movement called the  “Economy of Francis.” This is a new proposal to think about an economy that “brings life not death, one that is inclusive and not exclusive, humane and not dehumanizing, one that cares for the environment and does not despoil it.”

Hearing the Pope’s appeal since 2019, but especially during this Youth World Day, since last Monday, 31st of July, what are the important topics that can help a Responsible Leader to perform better as a Business Leader and successful Human being? I point out three of them, but I am sure many other reflections could be added:

• First of all, include ALL. Don’t forget that every human being is a person with a singular life purpose and incredible potential! If you don’t manage your human resources well and don’t value your collaborators as they are, you may be spoiling their potential and refraining from their ability to live their life to the fullest. As Saint Exupéry mentioned once: “You are responsible for the ones you captivate.” In your case, do you think your workers expect more from you?
   
• Take care of the environment and the planet. At the end of the day, hurting the planet, its precious resources, and its diverse live modes is also hurting our human dignity and running away from our responsibility for this planet. The smart ones also understand that a sick planet also means more climate-led disasters and immense economic losses. Are you up to act in the short and medium term to lead the way out of a climate disaster that puts the most vulnerable at risk?
   
• Dream big and risk a life that is worth living. At our Universidade Católica, the Pope mentioned that more than being guided by fear (or risk-mitigating, if you will), courageous leaders are the ones that dream big and put their lives at service. Are you willing to lead or just follow the crowd and manage the fear of the market? What are your most ambitious goals for your company? (maybe you agree with me that profit seems so short at this moment …).
   

Much more could be said… but that is good! Because this week must also end with our own reflection.

My proposal is for you to reflect on yourself as a leader and as a businessman: are you a Light in the dark in the lives of so many other people that work with you every day? What’s your main ambition? Are you still able to dream? Being young or old (as this old man that just left Portugal today), what will be your legacy?

Have a great and impactful week!

Filipa Pires de Almeida
Deputy Director of the Center for Responsible Business & Leadership

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