High Road Leadership Series Week Two
Tenet Two = Acknowledge Their Humanness
Introduction:
Leadership isn’t just about making decisions and giving orders. It’s about people. That’s why the most effective leaders are the ones who understand and appreciate the human side of their team members. In this blog, I’ll talk about the importance of acknowledging others’ humanness, with a little help from leadership guru John Maxwell.
Leadership starts with knowing yourself. You have to understand that you’re not perfect and neither is anyone else. This understanding helps build genuine connections with people because it’s rooted in honesty and authenticity.
John Maxwell, a big name in leadership training, also believes in the power of acknowledging the human side of people. He once said:
“To lead and inspire, we must understand that everyone is unique with their own experiences, emotions, and dreams. Acknowledging their humanness is the first step towards building authentic connections and helping them achieve their potential.”
Message:
Good leaders know that acknowledging the human side of their team members is key to building strong relationships. It’s more than just saying ‘hi’ or asking about their weekend. It’s about showing empathy and compassion. It’s about understanding their strengths, motivations, and aspirations.
I’ve seen firsthand how powerful this can be. During a project, instead of just focusing on the tasks, I made a conscious effort to understand each team member better. I recognized their unique skills and interests, which helped me assign tasks that they would enjoy and excel at. This led to a happier, more engaged, and more productive team.
Taking a page from John Maxwell’s book, I’ve learned that creating an environment where people feel valued and supported is crucial. When people feel seen and appreciated for who they are, trust and collaboration naturally follow.
How do we acknowledge the human side of others? Listen to them. Really listen. Put your phone away, look them in the eye, and focus on what they’re saying. Be open to their ideas and experiences. Admit when you’re wrong. Show them that it’s okay to make mistakes.
Recognize and appreciate the diversity in your team. Everyone brings something unique to the table. By acknowledging and verifying these differences, you create a space where creativity and progress thrive.
In short, being a good leader is about treating people as people – not just as employees or team members. It’s about seeing, hearing, and valuing them for who they are. As John Maxwell says, this is the first step towards helping them reach their potential.
Call to Action:
Take some time today to think about how you can better acknowledge the human side of the people around you. Maybe it’s as simple as having a genuine conversation or offering a word of encouragement. Remember, leadership is about people. So let’s make sure we treat them that way.