Victoria's Voice

Leading with heart

For much of my adult life, leadership was something I studied, taught and practiced. It was closely tied to achievement, influence and outcomes — important and necessary measures in the workplace. Yet in this chapter of life, I find myself returning not to strategies or titles, but to a quieter, more personal question: What does it mean to lead with heart?

Leadership is a word we use often, sometimes casually. We associate it with authority, visibility and accomplishment. But beneath its everyday use lies a deeply philosophical question: What is leadership? 

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Victoria Atamian Waterman

Victoria Atamian Waterman is a writer born in Rhode Island. Growing up in an immigrant, bilingual, multi-generational home with survivors of the Armenian Genocide has shaped the storyteller she has become. She is an active volunteer of Soorp Asdvadzadzin Armenian Apostolic Church in Whitinsville, MA and chair of the Armenian Heritage Monument in Whitinsville, MA. She is the author of "Who She Left Behind."

One Comment

  1. I can really relate to your article with the message, lead with your heart. I had no idea where I would lead until hundreds of Baku Armenian refugees came to Lansing, MI beginning in the early 1990’s. All of a sudden, my Armenian language, my home, and my Armenian cultural background all came into play when so many needed so much. I knew of only a couple of other Armenians around, but they had no idea these people had arrived – and it was a labor of love that propelled me to help in any way I could. These efforts resulted in a well-adjusted community of Armenians who found their way despite tremendous obstacles: no English, no jobs, little money. But they had determination and young families to support. Today, I am blessed by the many friendships and tokens of appreciation. I did not work alone as God guided me every step of the way, of this I am sure. He works in mysterious ways!

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