Empowering Talk
Empowering people is high on the list of expectations for leaders. People look to us for inspiration, insight, and instruction (three big “I’s” of leadership). We have much to offer. The Apostle Paul prayed that God would give him a “door of utterance” (Colossians 4:3). This could be referred to as opportunities to speak into (influence) someone’s life.
We must continually watch for these open doors all around us. When we're inattentive, we miss significant moments to impart meaningful value, wisdom, and guidance to those who truly need it. These opportunities come more often than we realize. We can be a consistent voice of hope, encouragement, and clarity in our spheres of influence.
Don’t ignore these moments or regard them as small. In fact, they can often be of more importance than the “bigger” things you do. Not only can you benefit others in these moments, if effectively capitalized on in a timely manner, you can also greatly learn from these opportunities. This has been the case for me more times than I can mention here.
As a husband, parent, pastor, leader, and speaker, I’ve applied the following three tips in various leadership settings (public and private) over the years to help inspire others towards growth and success. The goal is to influence people not impress them. These very simple points will help you better engage and empower the people you lead.
Encouragement (You can do this)
Everyone needs someone in their corner who believes in them. Drew Bundini Brown, assistant trainer and famous hype-man for Muhammad Ali, was one such person. Brown coined the phrase, “Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee” and other power phrases that helped motivate Ali to win several major victories in his career. Not only did he belt out these sayings from the corner of the boxing ring, Brown was also known for following Ali around chanting, “You’re the greatest Ali. You’re the greatest.” Needless to say, Ali and Brown had a lifelong, cherished friendship. We all covet someone like this in our lives. Our presence should evoke this same sentiment in others. Are you a magnetic or a repellent leader? When people are around you, are they in a hurry to leave, or do they linger for a little while longer to draw strength from your positive valuation of them?
Perspective (Look at it this way)
Sometimes, people need to be reminded their failure is only temporary and that they’re not failures. Failure is a part of the process. People will fail all throughout their lives. However, each time they can learn from it. As a leader you will have to help people see different perspectives from their failure and their successes. Often, when I felt I failed greatly at something, I’ve had people in my life to remind me that God was in control and that He allowed it all to happen for a reason. By this, I was able to quit focusing on the mistake and see God’s greater purpose. We are called on to help people divert their attention to the bigger picture. We can help them see things more clearly by shining a joyful and positive light on what otherwise may be a dismal outlook. Helping people change their perspective and refocus empowers their confidence and perseverance.
Practice (Try doing this)
Encouragement and perspective are only two-thirds of the leadership equation. You must also provide viable actions-steps toward growth. As a leader in your field, you have the sufficient experience to effectively motivate and inspire others. However, people don’t just need thoughts; they need tools. Concepts are important, but concrete application is just as necessary. People need to know what to do. Know that there will be times you will be uncertain. This may require deeper thought and extended research. Resist giving into the pressure to always have the answers. Listening and seeking to understand is the first step. Even the best of leaders gets stumped. You will frequently need to call in reinforcements. Just because you may not know how to advise someone doesn’t mean you can’t provide them with solutions. Learn to lean on outside support.
