Each day, leaders are faced with moments that require action, especially when dealing with conflict, discrimination, or unethical behavior. These moments often reveal two types of behaviors: upstander and bystander. An upstander is someone who recognizes a problem and takes action, while a bystander observes the situation without intervening. The distinction between these two behaviors is essential in leadership because it directly impacts team morale, trust, and the overall culture of an organization.
At LEADJITSU, we teach leaders to cultivate upstander behaviors, rooted in our principles of Warrior’s Courage and Gi Integrity. By understanding and adopting upstander actions, leaders can create a workplace culture where every individual feels respected, valued, and safe.
Upstander Behavior: The Leadership Essential
Upstander leaders actively step in when they witness a problem or injustice, whether it’s subtle microaggressions, overt conflict, or team-wide issues that undermine morale. These leaders show Warrior’s Courage by demonstrating the bravery to confront issues that others may ignore. Upstanders don’t wait for someone else to act; they take the initiative to protect team integrity, inclusivity, and respect.
The benefits of upstander behavior in leadership are profound. Upstanders inspire their teams to be more proactive and engaged, building a foundation of trust. By addressing issues head-on, upstanders prevent problems from festering and promote a safe, collaborative, and high-performing workplace.
Examples of Upstander Actions:
- Addressing inappropriate comments or behaviors directly and constructively.
- Advocating for team members who are underrepresented or marginalized.
- Providing a safe environment for employees to share concerns without fear of judgment.
Bystander Behavior: The Cost of Inaction
In contrast, bystanders observe issues but choose not to act, often out of fear, discomfort, or the hope that someone else will intervene. While bystander behavior doesn’t necessarily stem from a lack of care, the impact can be harmful. Leaders who remain bystanders allow negative behaviors to persist, potentially damaging team morale and productivity. This inaction can lead to a lack of trust and a culture where employees don’t feel protected or valued.
The absence of action from bystanders can be perceived as condoning unacceptable behaviors, ultimately leading to disengagement and high turnover. For organizations to thrive, leaders must avoid bystander tendencies and take responsibility for creating a positive workplace.
Examples of Bystander Inaction:
- Ignoring subtle signs of team discomfort or tension.
- Failing to address inappropriate or hurtful behavior.
- Avoiding conversations around important but uncomfortable topics, like diversity or ethical concerns.
How LEADJITSU Cultivates Upstander Leaders
At LEADJITSU, we equip leaders with the tools to cultivate upstander behavior. The principles of Warrior’s Courageand Gi Integrity emphasize that leadership is about making hard decisions, standing up for what’s right, and demonstrating ethical conduct. Here’s how LEADJITSU fosters these qualities in leaders:
- Warrior’s Courage: Leaders practice addressing difficult situations, role-playing responses to uncomfortable scenarios, and reinforcing their commitment to team values and standards.
- Gi Integrity: Leaders learn to uphold honesty, transparency, and ethical standards in every action, inspiring trust and dependability within their teams.
The Outcome: By practicing these LEADJITSU principles, leaders transform from passive observers into active advocates, enhancing team morale, productivity, and a supportive, inclusive culture.
The Choice Between Upstander and Bystander
The choice between upstander and bystander behavior is a defining moment for every leader. By embodying upstander behaviors, leaders set a powerful example, paving the way for a culture of trust, resilience, and excellence. LEADJITSU teaches that leadership is not just about guiding teams but about protecting and uplifting them through intentional action and ethical integrity.
Are you ready to embrace upstander leadership? Contact us to learn more about the LEADJITSU principles that transform bystanders into bold, proactive leaders.
