Leading with Love and Taking the More Generous Path
Despite the highly commercialized leanings of this holiday, many of you know that I love Valentine's Day. It reminds me of special moments that my mom created for us growing up, and it also aligns with the first invitation of Expansive Impact, which is Be Compassionate: Lead with Love.
In the spirit of the holiday, here are a few small, simple things that we can do to lead with love. Each takes less than five minutes (and most take less than one).
Say Good Morning.
Hold Neutral (rather than assuming negative intent).
Share a genuine compliment.
Write a thank you note and drop it in the mail (or on someone's desk).
Take time to notice, and acknowledge, excellent service when you're at a restaurant (or hotel, or store). As a bonus —share your feedback with the manager.
Write a positive review —on Google for your favorite small or local business, or on Amazon or Goodreads or Bookshop for a book you recently enjoyed.
When faced with an option of a “more generous” or “less generous” path, take the generous path. One example: if you have to transition folks out of your organization due to restructuring or layoffs, consider offering them transitional coaching, to support them in finding their next role. (We can help with this.)
Share the big picture, the why and the vision so that everyone in the organization can feel part of it.
Set clear expectations. Often, creating clarity is an act of love.
Snap a photo of the person who is often behind the camera. Or, offer to take a “real photo” for a group of strangers attempting to take an awkward selfie.
Consider: what really matters? What are my values? What is most important? And, how can I show up in service of these things —for myself, and for others?
What else would you add to the list?
Here are some additional gifts we can give for free.
Here is more on the power of a gentle approach, which we explored together a few weeks back…and on small gestures of care, via a warm chocolate chip cookie and a warmed-up coffee.
Questions? Please feel free to drop us a note anytime.
