As leaders, we often encounter team members who may not be as motivated or driven as we are. They may lack the same level of dedication, courage, or skills to get things done, and as a result, they may not be giving their best effort. It’s easy to fall into the trap of judging and condemning these individuals while praising ourselves for carrying the weight of the organisation on our shoulders.
However, the truth is that we don’t know what is going on in their lives, what challenges they have faced, or what their natural inclinations and motivations are. We also may not have a deep understanding of cultural differences that may impact their work styles and approaches.
Empathy is not just about listening to what others are saying; it’s also about listening to what others are not saying. It is about truly connecting with them and understanding their perspectives. We need to take the time to understand their desires, dreams, and motivations to build genuine relationships with them. It is all about leading with empathy.
It’s tempting to try to change others to fit to our vision. But, it may be more effective to focus on changing ourselves and learning how to work with others effectively. By understanding their unique qualities and strengths, we can build a stronger team and drive better results together.
