At BUILT TO LEAD we challenge ourselves and our clients to look beneath the surface and to read between the lines. We search for truth in unexpected places and find the melody line between seemingly discordant notes. We want to help each other question the status quo and hold common practice to a higher standard.
What do you think about the term “empowerment”? Isn’t it commendable for leaders to “empower” their people? It sounds good—who doesn’t want their associates and colleagues to own their abilities and passions to make a difference? One of the biggest factors in workplace satisfaction is the freedom to make decisions about how one’s work is accomplished. We certainly want our associates to have that kind of power. But what happens when we look beneath the surface of what empowerment really means?
When you empower someone, you actually decrease his or her power. My ipad is dependent upon an outside power source to keep charged. If by “empowerment” we mean that our associates are dependent upon the leader giving them direction or permission to fulfill their tasks, then the leader is creating dependency rather than true power.
Where is the closest CEO to you right now? The amazing truth is that you are the CEO of a cool little company called Y.O.U. We will all be much more fulfilled in work and life as we assume the responsibility for leading ourselves. Don’t wait around for permission! Don’t waste time looking for someone else to empower you – God already has. What might you see differently if you assumed your proper title? Where might you journey? Whom might you help? Who will you thank? What is the source of your power, my friends? Are you powered from within, drawing down power from another, or powered synthetically by some kinda substance? Slow down and reflect. And…
Happy Easter, friends. Happy Easter, Y.O.U.
BUILT TO LEAD 