Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Self-Esteem Comes First

How important is self-esteem?  Is it a priority in your leadership style?  It should be. All the strategy, data analysis, planning, fancy buildings, social media tools and shrinking budgets in the world pale in comparison to focusing on self-esteem.  And I don't mean your self-esteem.


There's No "You" in "Team"
Am I suggesting that the items I listed above are not important?  Of course not.  But they don't come first.  The people come first.  The ones that do the work, execute on your plans, engage with your customers, help manage costs, and drive innovation. They need you to maintain or improve their self-esteem.    


Easy to Say, Hard to Do
Maintaining or enhancing self-esteem is easy to do when you like the other person, or when a team member has done something amazing. However, doesn't it seem more difficult to do when you are sick and tired of the other person: a poor performer,  or you wish they didn't work for you, or you can't stand your boss...etc?  I thought so.  So what should we do about it?


Rise above, that's what.  You're the leader, not a high school kid who's worrying about who is being seen with whom.  Get over yourself.  I know I need to sometimes.


How About You
How are you going to connect with people today?  Particularly the ones that aren't on your holiday party invite list.  Will you turn the other way as they approach; or, will they get an unexpected visit to pump them up.  Are you going to rise above?


I'd love to hear from you.


No Excuses.




pic courtesy of Self-Esteem Shop

2 comments:

  1. Jay,
    Excellent post. Self-esteem is so vital to both career and personal success. Sometimes it just takes a "I really appreciate your hard work" to get someone on track.
    Keep 'em coming!

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  2. Thanks Lee...it does seem so simple, and yet can be so powerful. I appreciate the feedback!

    ReplyDelete