Self-centered leaders ask, “How do you feel about me?” Servant leaders ask, “How do you feel about yourself?”
Organizations change when people change. Leaders accelerate change by lifting people.
How do people feel about themselves because of your influence?
My Blind Spot
I was disappointed when my daughter told me I intimidate people. Worse yet, she thought I wanted to.
I still struggle with her observation. It doesn’t align with the way I see myself. (That’s the nature of blind spots.) Her observation raises an important question.
How do you want others to feel about themselves after spending time with you?
How do People Feel After Spending Time with You
Do some leave feeling…
- Weak.
- Judged.
- Inadequate.
- Out of place.
Do some leave feeling…
- Powerful.
- Respected.
- Connected.
- Worthy.
- Bold.
- Valued.
- Competent.
One leader said, “I want others to feel they have something to add.”
10 Ways to Lift People
- Share stories of what you learned from failure.
- Ask about process, not just outcome. “What did it take to get this done?”
- Entrust authority to competent people.
- Ask, “What do you think?” Act on good ideas.
- Use kindness even when dealing with tough issues.
- Resist solving problems others can solve.
- Resist always having the last word.
- Admit when you’re wrong.
- Say, “I’m counting on you.”
- Say, “You don’t need my permission.”
Arrogant leaders make themselves important. Servant leaders lift people.
A final word: Don’t put yourself down to lift people up.
Challenge: Before your next conversation, decide how you want people to feel after spending time with you.
What can you do today to lift people?
The Top Signs You’re a Servant-Leader – Leadership Freak
“Minute With Maxwell: LIFTING OTHERS UP – John Maxwell Team”
