In critical times like this, we can only lean on each other for support and survival. The need to be a source of happiness and inspiration to others is necessary to make this world a better place.
Here are a few practical tips for your digest.
- Believe it will get better first, by holding on to positive statements like this:
Tough times are not going to last forever.
Worrying does not empty tomorrow of its troubles. It empties today of its strength
Focus on the good things in life, Don’t Give Up.
- Show them you care
When you take the time to learn about others, it shows that you care. This empowers and encourages them. If you are a business leader, the best way to do this is in your one-on-one meetings. If you aren’t doing one-on-ones with your team, this is the time to start. Take the time to learn about their family, interests, fears, challenges, and dreams. One of the single best ways to encourage others is to care about what they care about.
- Tell them verbally
Use the four magic leadership words: I believe in you.
Take the time to tell your team, your friends, your family, and your followers that you believe in their abilities and that you are confident that they will succeed.
- Tell them in writing
The great thing about encouraging someone in writing is that he can keep the note forever. Imagine seeing encouraging messages from your team members’ every day in the office.
- Share with others
One of the best ways to encourage someone is to tell others how great he or she is. When you speak of your spouse in public, praise him/her. When you talk about your children, praise them in public. Likewise at work, when you talk about a team member with a fellow manager, talk him up. Over time, it will create a culture of encouragement.
- Trust them with more
When you assign responsibility to someone, even if you verbalize it, you are saying, “I trust you.” Trust conveys belief. When you give someone responsibility, remember you are not only trusting them with the expectation of success, you need to allow them to make mistakes. When you micromanage or try to “fix” things along the way, it is discouraging and demotivating. Give responsibility, trust the person, and get out of the way.
- Help them
This might sound like the opposite of No. 5, but let me be clear that helping is not micromanaging or meddling. Simply ask how you can help them. It’s important for others to know that while you trust them, you are also there to help.
This goes beyond just helping with projects or tasks, though. Get involved in their personal development by offering to send them to professional training, seminars, classes, or other learning opportunities. Show them that you care about their self-improvement, not just their word.
