The Footnotes Blog

When you have more than you need, build a bigger table, not a higher fence.

Photo belongs to James Howard

We often see leaders in society portrayed as visionaries, or highly talented individuals who have proven themselves adept at amounting huge fortunes, winning the most competitive sports, or leading political parties elected to office and are tempted into thinking that these individuals succeeded on their own. We are often blind to the fact that behind the scenes these individuals are working with countless others who support them in their mission to achieve their goals. This is why it is so important for good leaders to be team players, adept at managing social relations, because leaders don’t work in isolation. Effective leaders have well-developed social skills to lead teams and can adapt quickly to changing situations.

Photo belongs to James Howard

One of the most important skills good leaders have is recognizing when it’s okay to let other members of their team take on more responsibilities. We’ve talked previously about how important it is for good leaders to build trust among their team, but one of the most important ways to express this trust is for leaders to trust their team take on more responsibilities, so the leader can focus on leading. Everyone knows what a micromanager looks like, and how discouraging it feels when your manager or superior won’t let you get things done on your own because they don’t trust you, but one of the consequences is that lack of trust threatens the integrity of a leader’s team and their ability to reach their goals.

Photo belongs to James Howard

Recognizing the talents of your team and setting them up for success is the most important step towards empowering everyone around you. Not only does your team get the chance to prove to their leader and themselves they are competent and capable of taking on more responsibilities (and being rewarded), empowering your team builds trust and loyalty within your team, because their leader gave them a chance to be better, or try something new. These opportunities are invaluable for professionals, especially young people, when it comes to achieving their goals and dreams in life. If you find a leader in your life that empowers others, the best thing you can do is take on the opportunities these leaders are ready to give you, because one day you might also be a leader able to empower someone else.