The demand for corporate leadership development consultants is rapidly increasing in the GCC region, driven by heightened workplace stress, fast-paced business environments, and mental health concerns. Organizations now seek more personalized and specialized leadership development services beyond traditional skills like communication and time management. There’s a growing shift toward leadership coaching that addresses specific challenges leaders face in today’s volatile environment. Companies are recognizing the need for tailored programs to support mental well-being, adaptability, and resilience, fostering leaders who can navigate pressure and high-velocity business demands more effectively. This trend marks a significant shift in leadership training priorities.
To this end, You Are More is a renowned consultancy specializing in leadership development, particularly attuned to the unique cultural diversity of the GCC region. Co-founded and led by industry veterans Maximilian Malchiner and Allan Miller from IMX Direct who have worked together for the past 17 years, their robust system has impacted over 30,000 individuals, with their combined expertise and vision continuing to drive their success. Allan Miller has been active for 7 years in the GCC.
You Are More emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and authentic leadership, which are crucial for balancing closeness with teams and conserving energy. Their innovative training and coaching programs help leaders develop these attributes, promoting a servant leadership model that aligns with emerging global trends. This approach not only enhances individual effectiveness but also aims to prevent burnout and stabilize organizational performance. “Innovation in leadership is defined by a shift from traditional management to a more
coaching-oriented approach. Modern leaders should possess an understanding of psychological principles and personality traits to effectively guide and empower their teams. Forward-thinking leaders need to shift their mindset, prioritizing the enabling of their people while maintaining empathy and decisiveness”, adds Maximilian Malchiner.
You Are More’s approach begins with a focus on the individual, drawing on global experience of Innermetrix from over 35 countries across five continents. It believes that core human traits such as behavior, motivation, and talent can be effectively measured and analyzed. By first understanding one's own personality, leaders can better comprehend and appreciate the personalities and values of others. This self-awareness fosters stronger communication and trust, enabling teams to thrive in culturally diverse environments.
The firm emphasizes the importance of shared values, turning cultural differences into strengths, and minimizing potential conflicts. Its tailored programs build resilient leaders and cohesive teams grounded in mutual respect and understanding.
Navigating Leadership Challenges
You Are More recognizes that leaders often grapple with burnout and stress, especially amidst the region's rapid economic diversification and geopolitical shifts. The firm addresses these challenges by implementing effective energy management techniques, such as mindfulness, breathing exercises, and regular physical activity. By emphasizing the integration of these practices into daily routines, the firm helps leaders maintain personal balance and enhance their effectiveness.
“No matter the industry, your core personality remains unchanged. Self-confidence and self-knowledge are essential, and while skills can be learned through training, lacking self-assurance will lead to struggles across any economy. Success is not dictated by the economic environment but by your readiness to tackle tasks and face challenges. Personal readiness and self-awareness are crucial as they are your greatest allies in overcoming obstacles and achieving effective leadership”, emphasizes Maximilian Malchiner.
Allan Miller, Co-Founder
Balancing Personal Well-being for Sustainable Leadership
According to Maximilian, building a sustainable future requires leaders to establish a solid foundation in the present, with personal well-being at the core. In his book, Six Pillars of Life, he emphasizes the importance of balancing both private and professional lives. The six pillars, private life, hobbies, sports, social life, health, work and finances, and spirituality are critical. Ignoring personal fulfillment while pursuing professional success leads to burnout and dissatisfaction. Many leaders, though successful, struggle to enjoy their achievements and remain in a state of frustration. True success requires both personal happiness and professional accomplishment.
Maximilian notes that initiatives like the UAE’s mental health and happiness programs reflect an understanding of this balance. Only happy individuals form the foundation of happy families, organizations, and communities. This focus on happiness is essential for long-term motivation and success.
Building a sustainable future requires leaders to establish a solid foundation in the present, with personal well-being at the core
“Happiness is essential for building strong organizations, starting with happy leaders at the top. It's not a mystery but a state of mind that leaders must cultivate. Our mission is to maximize people's talents and inner values, helping them reach their full potential. In today’s world, where burnout rates are high, it's vital to create non-toxic work environments. Leaders must be accountable for their team's mental health, ensuring that everyone is aligned with their strengths and working in a way that brings fulfillment and flow”, concludes Maximilian Malchiner.
Maximilian Malchiner, Founder & MD, You Are More
Maximilian Malchiner is a distinguished professional, having served as CEO for a subsidiary of RTL Group and Deutsche Telekom before transitioning to consulting. His expertise has benefited numerous organizations, and he was a lecturer at the KPMG Business Academy from 2013 to 2015. With a strong foundation in personality and sport mental psychology, Maximilian holds a degree in applied psychology, Mindfulness and Mental Health from the University of La Salle, Madrid, and a diploma in Psychological Sports Coaching from the Academy of Sports, Germany. Fluent in five languages, he leverages his global experience and leadership acumen to specialize in mindful leadership, emotional intelligence, and peak performance. Widely recognized for his contributions, Maximilian is frequently featured in international publications, media and events.
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