Tag Archives: Inspiration

Indispensable Leader, Inspire, Leadership, Leadership Behaviors

EVERYDAY LEADERS: INSPIRE


“Leadership is not about a title or a designation. It’s about impact, influence, and inspiration. Impact involves getting results, influence is about spreading the passion you have for your work, and you have to inspire team-mates and customers.” – Robin S. Sharma

This year I am focusing on everyday leaders. Not those who hold a formal position of authority, but those of us who, through our behaviors, have the ability to influence and inspire those around us just by being us. This is the fourth installment of articles that focus on one specific behavior that can make a huge difference in our ability to impact the lives of others.

This month I want to talk about inspiration. What does inspiration have to do with being an everyday leader? Everyday leaders serve to inspire others. They share their passion, their vision for the future, and they set an inspirational example for others to follow. So, what does inspiration look like in everyday leadership?

Share your passion:

When you are passionate about the work you do; your vision of the future; and your dedication to your values, you have a level of energy that is contagious. As an everyday leader, you can share your passion with others. When they see the energy it provides you, it just might inspire them to find their own passion.

Something bigger:

We all want to feel that we are an important part of something that is bigger than ourselves. When, as an everyday leader, you help others see the big picture; the meaning behind the work; and the value that their contribution brings, you inspire a strong attitude of teamwork. This teamwork builds relationships, trust, and loyalty that benefits every member individually as well as the team as a whole.

Higher standards:

When you set high standards for yourself, you set a wonderful example for those who are watching you. There is nothing more inspirational than seeing someone commit to their values whole-heartedly. Let those around you see your light and your energy as a beacon that inspires them to reach further than they ever dreamt possible.

Everyday leaders inspire others by providing a view of the future, an energy level, and a positive example that lifts those around them. They share their passion, their belief in working toward something bigger than themselves, and they live as an example of dedication to values through the higher standards they set. Through sharing their inspiration, everyday leaders make an impact on the lives of those around them.

How can you start being an inspiration to others today?

 

© 2018 Liz Stincelli

 

I am passionate about recognizing and inspiring the leader in each of us. I am the Founder of Stincelli Advisors where I focus on helping organizations change attitudes, change communication dynamics, improve collaboration and problem-solving, engage employees, and strengthen organizational culture. I hold a Doctor of Management degree with an emphasis on organizational leadership.

Learn more about me by visiting my website, stincelliadvisors.com and connect with me on Twitter @infinitestin, Google+, and LinkedIn. You can contact me by email at stincelliadvisors@gmail.com.

Engage Now, Inspiration, Leadership, Motivation

Motivation vs. Inspiration

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“Excellence endures and sustains. It goes beyond motivation into the realms of inspiration.” —Azim Premji

Webster’s definition of motivation is the process of motivating through force, stimulus, or influence. Inspiration is defined as the action or power of moving the intellect or emotions. The words motivate and inspire are often used interchangeably but, they have very different meanings. So, do you want to motivate your employees or so you want to inspire them?

       The external

I think of motivation as an external force. Picture the carrot or the whip in getting the behavior you want. When you motivate employees, you get them to perform purely to receive a reward or to avoid punishment.

              The internal

I think of inspiration as an internal force. Picture excitement, pride, and being part of something bigger that influences behavior. When you inspire your employees they perform because they are internally driven to make a meaningful contribution.

Why it Matters

Motivation can provide a great incentive for achieving short-term results. But, for the long-haul, do you want employees going through the motions purely to receive a reward or to avoid punishment? Or, would you like employees who are loyal to you, dedicated to doing a good job because they are proud of their contributions, and inspired to be part of something great? The fact is, both motivation and inspiration play an important role in leadership. Motivate employees to achieve short-term goals; inspire employees to reach far beyond your vision.

So, what are you going to do?

 

© 2017 Elizabeth Stincelli

 

Liz Stincelli is passionate about recognizing and inspiring the leader in each of us. She is the Founder of Stincelli Advisors where she focuses on helping organizations change attitudes, change communication dynamics, improve collaboration and problem-solving, engage employees, and strengthen organizational culture. Liz holds a Doctor of Management degree with an emphasis on organizational leadership.

Learn more about Liz by visiting her website, stincelliadvisors.com and connect with her on Twitter @infinitestin, Google+, and LinkedIn. You can contact her by email at stincelliadvisors@gmail.com.

 

Habits, Inspiration, Leadership, Success

How are You Going to Get to the Next Level of Greatness?

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up_stairs“Our minds influence the key activity of the brain, which then influences everything; perception, cognition, thoughts and feelings, personal relationships; they’re all a projection of you.” —Deepak Chopra
So here you are; you have come so far. But, is this where you are going to stop? Or, are you ready to reach the next level of greatness? As you start out on your journey, here are five questions to ask yourself.

Who are you?

Not the ‘who’ that everyone has been telling you to be, but the ‘who’ you were before you started believing them. Who were you when you were a child, young and naive? Who are you when you are alone with your thoughts, where no one can see or hear you? If you want to get to the next level of greatness, you have to find who you are at your very core.

What stories are you telling yourself?

Are they the same stories that you tell the world? Where did they come from? When did they start? Who first told them to you? And, most important, are they true? The stories that you tell yourself will either propel you to the next level of greatness or serve as an anchor around your neck that will sink you. Make sure you are telling yourself the right stories. Word of warning here, don’t lie to yourself; find positive, inspiring, powerful stories that are true.

What are your strengths?

While it’s good to minimize your weaknesses, your energy is much better spent on building on your strengths. What can you do to become even stronger? Can you become a subject matter expert, the go to person in your area of strength? If you want to reach the next level of greatness you can’t be a jack-of-all-trades; identify your strengths and run with them.

What are your goals?

You can’t reach the next level of greatness by wandering lost in the woods. Get realistic about where you are and then visualize what that next level looks like. What does it feel like? Now, set some goals to get you from here to there. Not giant, overwhelming goals; set small incremental goals that serve as stepping stones.

Who do you need to become?

The answer to this question holds the key to all success. The person that got you here can’t get you to the next level of greatness. So, what kind of individual would be able to attain that level? What would they know? How would they act? Who would they spend their time with? What habits would they have? Well, if you want to get to the next level, you’re going to have to become that person. So, get busy.

The Key

You hold the key to getting to the next level of greatness. It’s inside of you right now. You’re going to have to do some deep, sometimes uncomfortable soul searching to figure out who you really are. Then, you are going to have to unravel years’ worth of stories to get to the bottom of where they came from and if they are even true. You are going to have to start telling yourself new, powerful, and positive stories. You’re going to have to dig down and identify your true strengths and then pursue these strengths rather than fretting over your weaknesses.

You’re going to have to figure out how you are going to get from here to there and set some goals to keep yourself on track. And finally, you MUST figure out who you need to become in order to reach the next level of greatness. Now for the catch, answering all of these questions, no matter how deep you dig and how honest you are with yourself will get you nowhere without action.

So, get out there and get going!

 

 

© 2016 Elizabeth Stincelli

 

Liz Stincelli is passionate about recognizing and inspiring the leader in each of us. She is the Founder of Stincelli Advisors where she focuses on helping organizations engage employees and improve organizational culture. Liz holds a Doctor of Management degree with an emphasis on organizational leadership.

Learn more about Liz by visiting her website, stincelliadvisors.com and connect with her on Twitter @infinitestin, Google+, and LinkedIn. You can contact her by email at stincelliadvisors@gmail.com.

 

Leadership

The Four I’s of Leadership: Inspiration, Influence, Innovation, and Impact

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“Leadership is not about a title or a designation. It’s about impact, influence, and inspiration. Impact involves getting results, influence is about spreading the passion you have for your work, and you have to inspire team mates and customers.” — Robin S. Sharma

By Elizabeth Stincelli, DM

 

Leadership

While we may be able to make a list a mile long of factors that play a role in effective leadership, you will be well on your way if you can nail down the four I’s of leadership; inspiration, influence, innovation, and impact. These are key factors that will determine your ability to be effective in any other aspect of leadership. Leadership isn’t about ideas; it’s about making things happen. Focus your attention and energy on the four I’s of leadership and watch what happens.

Inspiration

John Quincy Adams said, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.” A leader inspires and motivates colleagues. They can spark the passion and creativity that encourages others to accomplish amazing things. Inspiration is the beginning of everything else; seek it at every turn and in every corner. Use your inspiration to pursue something you believe in; use it to make things happen and to inspire greatness in others. Let your inspiration be the spark that lights a wild fire.

Influence

John Hancock explained, “The greatest ability in business is to get along with others and to influence their actions.” Influence is how you get things done as a leader. In order to influence others you must build trusting relationships and show genuine concern on an individual level. Be a role model of accountability, perseverance, and courage. Be respectful in all of your interactions. Earnestly motivate your employees to accomplish noteworthy tasks and provide recognition rather than seek it. Become a good listener, then follow through and follow up. Share your wisdom and be transparent in your words and actions. When you become someone who employees look up to, you will have the influence you need to lead.

Innovation

William Pollard believed, “Learning and innovation go hand in hand. The arrogance of success it to think that what you did yesterday will be sufficient for tomorrow.” Where will your success come from tomorrow? As a leader, you must focus your resources on challenging the status quo and helping others innovate. Reach across your organization for new and innovative ideas; fresh perspectives inspire fresh thinking. Leverage the disruptive opinions and opposing points of view you find in your organization to generate great ideas and question deeply held beliefs and assumptions. Provide a safe environment where employees can experiment and fail, then learn from that failure. Remember, innovation is never an end; it’s only a step in a continual process.

Impact

Sean Parker tells us, “I definitely wanted to earn my freedom. But the primary motivation wasn’t making money, but making an impact.” Ultimately, leadership is about getting results. Your leadership is not about you, it’s about creating a culture of accomplishment. It’s about making an impact by interweaving connections, challenges, and creative situations. Recognize that your leadership will have an impact, whether good or bad, on everyone who interacts with your organization. Leadership is about people; awaken in others the belief that they can accomplish extraordinary things and make them feel valued. And then, cultivate leadership in others; leave a legacy of impacting future leaders in such a positive way that they, in turn, will have the same impact on others.

Your Turn

According to Lao Tzu, “A leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves.” As a leader, your value will be determined, in part, by the four I’s of leadership. Are you an inspiration? Are you able to really influence others? Do you encourage innovation by dedicating time, support, and resources? And, are you making a positive impact? Four simple I’s that, if used correctly, will lift your employees and your leadership.

 

 

© 2015 Elizabeth Stincelli

 

Elizabeth Stincelli is passionate about recognizing and inspiring the leader in each of us. She is the CEO of Stincelli Advisors where she focuses on helping organizations engage employees and improve organizational culture. Elizabeth holds a Doctor of Management degree with an emphasis on organizational leadership.

Learn more about Elizabeth by visiting her website, stincelliadvisors.com and connect with her on Twitter @infinitestin, Google+, and LinkedIn. You can contact her by email at stincelliadvisors@gmail.com.

 

Change, Inspiration, Leadership

Inspiring Change, One Person at a Time

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“Things do not change; we change.”—Henry David Thoreau

By Elizabeth Stincelli, DM

 

Inspiring Change

Henry David Thoreau’s words serve as a strong reminder that only through changing ourselves do we change our circumstances. Just as leaders are not born, but are built by day-to-day behaviors, so are the changes in your organization. When you develop and encourage your employees, they become the change that you desire for your organization.  The attention you give, the support you provide, and the example that you set shines as a beacon, inspiring change, one person at a time.

So, how can you inspire others to change?

Vision

The Dalai Lama said, “In order to carry a positive action we must develop here a positive vision.” If you want to inspire in others the desire to change as individuals, in order to spur change in your organization, you must put forth a strong, vivid vision that they can buy into. Everyone needs a clear understanding of where the organization is headed and how their activities contribute. You must create a sense of inclusion where every employee understands the role they play in working towards a worthwhile, positive vision.

Engagement

Rupert Murdoch believes, “In motivating people, you’ve got to engage their minds and their hearts.” You can’t bully or manipulate people into lasting change. They must follow you through thick and thin because they want to, because they are engaged, and they believe in you. Help your employees find their calling, engage them in using their talents for the good of the organization. Make their work meaningful. Build trust, help them develop their skills, and then give them control over their own work tasks. Help them succeed and then give credit for a job well done. When you invest in and engage employees, they become better and, as they become better, your organization becomes stronger.

Opportunity

Albert Einstein told us, “All that is valuable in human society depends upon the opportunity for development accorded the individual.” Only when you give others the opportunity to develop and grow as individuals will they become more valuable. And, only through increasing the value of individuals, can you bring about true and lasting change. Give employees the opportunity to be involved. Encourage them to dig deeper and challenge the status quo. As a leader, give of your time, sharing your knowledge and experience with employees to help them to grow and become the best they can be.

One Person at a Time

Change is built and sustained through everyday action, one person at a time. When you invest in helping your employees become the best they can be, you will build a strong capacity for lasting change. Put forth a compelling, positive vision that each employee can be part of. Engage them in their work; provide them the skills and resources necessary and then give them control. Open the doors of opportunity so employees can continue to grow. If you want change, you must inspire it, one person at a time.

 

 

© 2015 Elizabeth Stincelli

 

Elizabeth Stincelli is passionate about recognizing and inspiring the leader in each of us. She is the CEO of Stincelli Advisors where she focuses on helping organizations engage employees and improve organizational culture. Elizabeth holds a Doctor of Management degree with an emphasis on organizational leadership.

Learn more about Elizabeth by visiting her website, stincelliadvisors.com and connect with her on Twitter @infinitestin, Google+, and LinkedIn. You can contact her by email at stincelliadvisors@gmail.com.

 

Inspiration

Inspiring Others

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“The most important thing is to try and inspire people so that they can be great in whatever they want to do.” —Kobe Bryant

 By Elizabeth Stincelli, DM

 

Inspiration

Whether you like Kobe Bryant or not, his quote shows that he’s definitely on to something. What an incredible purpose, to live your life as to inspire others to give their absolute best efforts toward achieving their goals. You have the opportunity to inspire those around you on a daily basis. If you can learn to understand their motivations, you can inspire them and ignite their passions. You must first build authentic connections on a personal level. Offer your time and energy to help others grow and flourish. Spark their curiosity and inspire a passion for participation, innovation, and problem-solving. Your ability to inspire others is dependent on how they perceive you; make sure they see you as mutually trusting, authentic, and encouraging.

Trust

Booker T. Washington explained, “Few things can help an individual more than to place responsibility on him and to let him know that you trust him.” The influence you have with others makes you a leader, and to be successful in that role, formal or informal, you must develop relationships based on trust and commitment. Trust is a two-way street. You must earn the trust of those around you, but you must also demonstrate your trust in them. Trust provides the foundation from which you build the relationships that allow you to influence and inspire others. Get to know others on a personal level and show genuine interest in them. Include them in goal setting and decision-making processes. Ask for their input and give them the autonomy that shows you trust their intentions and abilities.

People look to those they trust and admire for inspiration. Be open and transparent in all your interactions. Be authentic and show you care. As you earn trust, you will also earn the opportunity to serve as an inspiration to others.

Set an example

Rupert Murdoch said, “In motivating people, you’ve got to engage their minds and their hearts. I motivate people, I hope, by example – and perhaps by excitement, by having productive ideas to make others feel involved.” The day-to-day example that you set plays a big role in your ability to be an inspiration to those around you. Everyone is looking for someone to inspire them. Act as a mentor to those looking for guidance. Show them how to set and then work toward goals. Make sure you’re available and willing to help those in need. Be authentic and live your life so that when others see your behaviors they will be inspired to model them.

Encouragement

John C. Maxwell tells us, “If you are a leader, you should never forget that everyone needs encouragement. And everyone who receives it – young or old, successful or less than successful, unknown or famous – is changed by it.” What better to be known for than as someone whose inspiration and encouragement changed the lives of those who came in contact with them? People are most satisfied when they feel empowered with a sense of control, independence, and value. They are encouraged when their contributions and ideas are respected. If your want to inspire others, help them to see the value and meaning they have to offer. Encourage them to be active participants in their own success.

Inspiring Others

Harold S. Geneen explained, “The best way to inspire people to superior performance is to convince them by everything you do and by your everyday attitude that you are wholeheartedly supporting them.” Inspire others by showing trust, setting a good example, and being of encouragement. Develop trusting relationships where you can inspire individuals to collaborate, share knowledge, and innovate on their own or in a group. Be authentic in your words and actions so others can see exactly what is inspiring about you. Help them become the best that they can be. Ignite passion and commitment which will inspire them to put forth their best efforts. And, the bonus is, the people who are inspired by you will turn around and share that inspiration with others.

 

 

 

© 2014 Elizabeth Stincelli

 

Elizabeth Stincelli is passionate about recognizing and inspiring the leader in each of us. She is the CEO of Stincelli Advisors where she focuses on helping organizations engage employees and improve organizational culture. Elizabeth holds a Doctor of Management degree with an emphasis on organizational leadership.

Learn more about Elizabeth by visiting her website, stincelliadvisors.com and connect with her on Twitter @infinitestin, Google+, and LinkedIn. You can contact her by email at stincelliadvisors@gmail.com.