Relational Thriving: Pathways, Practice, and Outcomes for Leadership Learning

ABSTRACT

Thriving is often understood as an individual pursuit, yet the conditions under which growth emerges and is sustained are deeply relational. This article introduces relational thriving, a dynamic experience of growth that develops through and is sustained by relationships and argues that relationships are central to leadership learning rather than incidental to it. Drawing on the Relational Leadership Model, three interconnected lenses frame the discussion: relationships as a pathway for thriving, relationships as the practice of thriving, and relationships as an outcome of thriving. Together, these lenses support leadership learning as a collective, relational endeavor in which growth is both shaped and realized through connection with others. Practical implications for cultivating environments that support relational thriving are offered for leadership educators, learners, and practitioners.