Do you feel a little overwhelmed when I say go make others better? Do you feel the weight of that responsibility? Good leadership involves being responsible, but responsibility doesn’t have to be hard or difficult. Part of the art of leadership is taking those things we must do and simplifying them, so they become part of who we are and not just something we do.
To feel like you have to change someone’s life can be a huge undertaking, but what if you are not called to change people but to impact them. What if impacting them was as simple as filling people’s tank just a little.
Let’s start with the commitment to be contributors to making others day better! I really think we are either going to make other people’s day better or we are going to make it worse. As leaders we have opportunities everyday to make a difference in the lives of others and you know what, it’s actually not that hard! With a little bit of effort and the willingness to put others first before yourself, that will go a long way.
The best part about making others day better is that it creates a positive energy that is contagious. People tend to reciprocate not only what they see, but also what they feel. You also never know the ripple effects it may create as it passes on to others.
So, how do we become tank fillers and practice the art of putting others first? I believe there are many things we can do, but today let’s keep it simple. I’m going to give you two thoughts.
- Be an encourager.
- Show gratitude.
If someone is doing a great job, encourage them to keep it up. If they are not doing well, pour belief into them and encourage them to keep going. Be a positive light in their life, there is already more than enough negativity going around.
Show appreciation whenever and wherever you can. Nothing is too small to be grateful for. Be intentional in watching what others do and pointing out your appreciation. As someone once said what we appreciate, appreciates. As leaders we have opportunities to appreciate the value of our people.
Let’s be positive tank fillers and do our part to leave rooms we enter better than we found them.
Grow as you go!
Walter Perez – Founder/CEO – The Leader Co. Inc.