Tag Archives: Leadership

Encouragement, Leadership, Leadership Behaviors

EVERYDAY LEADERS: ENCOURAGEMENT

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“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.” – John C. Maxwell

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 third 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 encouragement. What does encouragement have to do with being an everyday leader? It is the encouragement of everyday leaders that cheers us on when we are on the verge of giving up. This encouragement shows us that we are not alone, that others have confidence in us, and that someone truly cares and stands behind us. So, what does encouragement look like in everyday leadership?

You are on their side:

In the depth of our struggles, it is easy to feel like we are alone. The everyday leader is a comrade to those who are feeling cast-aside as if they were one against the world. When you encourage others, you show them that they have someone on their side who is rooting for them.

You can see beyond the obstacles:

When the going gets tough, it can be hard to see beyond the obstacles. The everyday leader sees and shares the hope and opportunity that exists in every situation. When you encourage others, you can share with them the view from beyond the obstacles they are facing.

You are vested in their success:

Sometimes it feels as though everyone and everything is working against us. The everyday leader wants to see everyone around them succeed and they are willing to give of themselves in the service of others. When you encourage others, you show them that you are truly vested in their success.

As John Maxwell pointed out in the quote at the beginning of this article, encouragement changes others. Encouragement allows everyday leaders to provide the support and hope to those around them that makes a real difference not only in their lives, but in who they are. Through their encouragement, everyday leaders make an impact on the lives of those around them.

How can you start encouraging 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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Empathy, Everyday Leaders, Leadership, Leadership Behaviors

EVERYDAY LEADERS: EMPATHY

“When you show deep empathy toward others, their defensive energy goes down, and positive energy replaces it. That’s when you can get more creative in solving problems.” – Stephen Covey

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 second 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 empathy. What does empathy have to do with being an everyday leader? It is the empathy of everyday leaders that disarms the defensive and negative attitudes of those around them. It shows the support and understanding that lifts spirits and gives strength when the going gets tough. So, what does empathy look like in everyday leadership?

Seeing through the eyes of others:

It’s easy to see things only from your point of view. When you take the time to see situations and circumstances through the eyes of others, you are better able to understand where they are coming from; why they have the opinions they have, and what factors may be impacting their attitudes and actions. Seeing things from our own perspective leads to biased opinions, actions, and decisions. So many conflicts and misunderstandings stem from an inability to see things from different perspectives. When we develop and exercise this skill, we gain the trust and respect of those we work with. They know that we are able to be unbiased in our evaluation of them and their situation.

Stepping in their shoes:

Just like seeing through the eyes of others, stepping in their shoes gives us a better understanding of who they are. It is easy to judge and make assumptions from the outside looking in; standing in someone else’s shoes can put things in perspective. We never know what someone is going through until we take the time to really find out. When we put forth the time and effort to gain insight into someone else’s inner world, it shows we care. And, everyone needs to know that they are worth caring about.

Setting an example of courage and support:

We all have moments when we feel weak and alone. Everyday leaders truly empathize with others; they show the courage to stand by and support those who need it the most. Their example sets the tone for others to follow. Imagine how every member of a team can thrive when there is an environment of support and understanding.

Empathy allows us to help set others up for success. Everyone struggles, faces obstacles, and feels excluded on occasion. Everyday leaders create an environment of inclusion and support where every member of the team can succeed. Through their empathy, everyday leaders make an impact on the lives of those around them.

How can you start showing empathy 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.