As leaders, we have so many demands on our time—and so many curveballs that keep coming at us—that we rarely take time to savor our own successes. Even if they’re relatively small accomplishments, they’re always worth celebrating. Watch Bobbie LaPorte’s September 13 “Your Best Next Move” video for a reminder to stop, listen, and appreciate those occasions when others appreciate YOU.
Transcript of Your Best Next Move – How to Know if You’re Making a Difference as a Leader
Hi everyone, Bobbie LaPorte here again with my weekly leadership tip for your Best Next Move, where I help you see continuing curveballs as an opportunity.
It’s been 2 ½ years since I delivered my first TEDx talk in early 2020, just before Covid took over our lives. Who could have predicted the times ahead and all the challenges we’d be facing…and still are. But there have also been many accomplishments: breakthrough success on projects; new and often unexpected relationships; a better understanding of us and others; and (hopefully) a new appreciation of what is possible…as well as what’s best left behind.
With all the demands on your time, the things that are weighing you down, and the curveballs you continue to crush, how do you know if you’re making a difference?
When I speak with clients every day, I hear about challenges and problems, but rarely about successes or victories, however small they may be. I remind them of why they do what they do, and to find those moments that lift all of us, that makes it all worthwhile to be a leader during these challenging times.
What prompted this thought? Well, back to my TEDx talk, which is now approaching 1 million views, an achievement I would never have imagined when I was preparing to deliver this in early 2020. It was a great experience in both the planning and delivery, but the real currency here for me is in the feedback and comments that I have received on YouTube – like the following:
“If you are facing change in your company, or fear change you need to see this talk”
“It’s incredible how different an outcome can be when you approach the difficulty with awareness and positivity! Thank you for this reminder, Bobbie”
“This was such a joy to watch! And so many helpful hints at finding balance… this talk couldn’t be more apt for everyone at the moment. We’re all going through such uncertainty. Thank you, Bobbie!”
So gratifying…and this is why I do what I do. So, what about you?
Here’s my tip to know if you’re making a difference:
Stop to connect and “listen” to what people, particularly your team members are saying. Take the time to ask them, “Is this helpful, is this making a difference for you?”
Take it in and appreciate how others appreciate you. You might be surprised – and gratified as I am.
That’s my tip for the week. I’ll see you next Monday.
Related Posts:
Why You Need to Share Your Successes
Helpful Ideas for Motivating Your Team
When “How Are You Doing?” Isn’t Enough
Leading with Empathy and Agility During Uncertainty
Coronavirus Curveball Tip of the Week: Step Back and Reflect
Help Star Performers Find Meaning in Their Work – Before They Resign
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