There is an adage that states: “We see the world the way we want to see it.” This is a statement I believe and subscribe to. In other words, when we wake up in the morning, and think this is going to be a good day, guess what? Somehow, we work hard to have a positive day. Of course, the reverse also is true. We wake up and say this is going to be a lousy day and then we work hard to make our prediction come true. This concept holds true when we look at and evaluate (judge) others as well.
The positive person looks at the sky, and marvels at its magical blue. The negative person looks at the sky and thinks, “Look at those clouds. It will probably rain and spoil my golf game.” The telescope we look through influences our mood and behavior, and how we relate, interact and communicate with others.
Are we critical of those around us? Or, do we look for the greatness in them? Do we see their value by looking at what is in their hearts? It is not a person’s appearance, education or background that we should focus on.
Think of the people who valued you in life, who looked deep inside you and saw greatness. They guided you to see it and release it! Identity is a powerful motivational driver.
As children, we would look into people’s eyes with acceptance, but as adults we tend to lose the gratefulness of valuing others’ differences. We all need to celebrate who we are and who others are. It is indeed ok to show the emotion of caring in the work environment – emotion can be energizing and empowering. True leaders are comfortable in their own skin and let their emotions out, which opens the door for others.
It is a given that most employees seek to assist others, which is a motivator in itself. Learning reinforces one’s sense of greatness. If we are not careful, the negatives around us, can jade our outlook and in effect rob us of the richness of life. Greatness is all around us. It is our challenge and duty, if I may, to open eyes wide and see it.
Remember your favorite teacher, who helped you overcome the challenges of learning a difficult subject. They saw the greatness in you! The leader who vowed to never let you fail, and gave you confidence and inspired you toward greatness. What a remarkable gift.
I suspect that critical leaders tend to have higher employee turnover and less motivated employees. Have you ever worked for a bully boss? I have. I found another job as quick as I could. The story of our leadership is what we leave behind. By giving others the opportunity to release their greatness we are truly giving back. Greatness comes in different sizes and colors. The trick is to keep our eyes and hearts wide open so that greatness can grow and bloom.
Greatness requires being bold and chasing your dreams. As a leader, are you a dream maker, or a dream destroyer?
“Live daringly, boldly, fearlessly. Taste the relish to be found in competition in having put forth the best within you.” – Henry J. Kaiser, American industrialist
Greatness is something we must work for. It unleashes our true potential and allows us to embrace life in a more positive light. Fostering the greatness in others is seeking it, believing it and remembering it each day. True leaders challenge and change the status quo and nurture a culture of purpose, value and greatness.
“The true measure of greatness is our capacity to navigate between our opposites with agility and grace – to accept ourselves exactly as we are, but never stop trying to get better.” – Tony Schwartz, CEO and founder of The Energy Project
Leaders set the tone for greatness. They have high expectations for their teams, and thus it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. Greatness becomes contagious. It inspires others to reach for the stars and to achieve greater success.
In my professional opinion, the No. 1 job of a leader is to bring out the best in others. As you start each day, remind yourself to focus on the strengths of others (greatness) and seek ways to bring out the best in others give recognition and stay connected by listening. Indeed, micromanaging does not work. Give employees the opportunity to fly and earn small wins.
Unseen ripples spread far and deep when we boost a person’s self-worth. Look for the greatness in you, which aids in viewing the greatness around us.
“Our prime purpose in this life is to help others and if you can’t help them, at least don’t hurt them.” – Dalai Lama
Greatness is being true to yourself and to others, drinking deeply from the gift of the greatness and goodness of your family, co-workers and friends. Celebrating your special uniqueness, and toiling to make a difference.
