The ABC’s of Leadership (Day 15): Offer

Make your team an offer they can’t refuse…you!

The most precious gift we can offer anyone is our attention. When mindfulness embraces those we love, they will bloom like flowers. (Thich Nhat Hanh)

 

Day 15 – ‘O’

Give up.  That’s right – I’m encouraging you to give up – give all of yourself up to your team.  Your value as a leader is best seen when supporting those around you.

Agapi Stassinopoulos‘ Huffingtonpost.com Blog ‘The Power of Offering: How Offering Can Instantly Unbind the Heart’ notes that, in Greek and Hindu culture, offering to the Gods was a sign of gratitude and thanksgiving.  More leaders need to emulate this.  Recall that leaders are empowered by the people they serve – leaders aren’t to be confused with managers, who are authorized by organizational models and HR charts.

Offering yourself is a form of compassion.  It humanizes the experience of working, living, and being together.  Some of the most challenging people, and situations, are managed with a little compassion.

I offer you peace. I offer you love. I offer you friendship. I see your beauty. I hear your need. I feel your feelings.

(Mahatma Ghandi)

So what is a leader to do? Offer.  Seems like an easy ask, but with so many demands, and so little time, it takes a conscious effort to put your team first, and yourself second.   Most importantly, offer your time, energy and talents.  Think of it as an obligatory ‘thank you’ for trusting you.  Remember, they had a choice.  Remind them that they chose wisely.

Want more on leadership? Check out my partner Dale Richardson’s thoughts in his Live the Goals podcast here![/one_third]

 

“The ABC’s of Leadership” is a web series highlighting principles of leadership.

Each day, we’ll highlight a new focus area and concept.  Done in partnership with Dale Richardson, a Podcast Host and John Maxwell Team certified speaker, trainer and coach, we’ll also offer a podcast exploring each idea further.

Tune in daily!