Choose Love To Lead
It's February, which means it's time to express our love!
Last month, I shared that my word for the year is Elevate, and my second is Celebrate. I hope you’ll indulge me while I share something I celebrated this month that made me feel loved. Also, I’m being accountable to you. Then, I want to present some ideas to reinforce choosing love to lead.
Reflecting
On February 1st, I hosted a book signing event. At first, I was excited about the idea, but later, I wondered whether I should proceed. However, a small voice in my head asked me, "Isn't 'celebrate' a theme of your year?" After considering the advantages of gathering people and elevating awareness of my book, I decided to proceed. And I'm so happy I did it. To those who attended, thank you so much. And to those who couldn't come, I felt your support. This event reminded me of the importance of togetherness and what brings me joy.
I have a solid community of people who care about me!
My community brings positive, powerful energy.
The laughter echoed throughout the beautiful Hera Hub facility and was accentuated by people's love for each other. Most people knew someone there, and if they didn’t, the warmth of the community welcomed them.
Staying connected is the key to thriving in life.
Click the link below to peek at the photo collage that beautifully captures joy, love, and laughter.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Rp_A0F6mWLFJE8_hP3lW2ZQ4pAeekUQO/view?usp=drive_link
Choose love to lead in your daily practice
I recently conducted a workshop titled "Elevate People Power Skills." My client has a culture that truly reflects its mission to create and sustain a caring, inclusive environment. They communicate openly by sharing things they could have done better, but they push forward and reflect on their successes. The team is excited to brainstorm solutions together, and they are a diverse group representing a variety of cultures and generations.
Two components we discussed that I hope will add value to you as you are below.
People skills are a foundation for inclusive cultures
We all know listening is important, but we often fail to do it effectively. The most impactful way to listen is to practice empathetic listening, which involves listening to understand and feel what the speaker is experiencing.
I have had to work on improving my empathy skills. Whenever someone shares a problem or situation I may not have experienced, I avoid judging them and focus on putting myself in their shoes. I try to imagine how I would feel in their situation. I believe this skill can be developed with practice.
How do you know when the person you're engaging with senses that you care?
Watch a funny video that captures listening and empathy. Notice what Raymond did to show he listened and understood...
Click here:
Creating Safe Spaces
Do you ever find yourself in a situation where you want to ask a question but are afraid of looking or feeling stupid? I know I have. However, I've learned that it's okay to be vulnerable and humble and ask questions even if it may seem silly. When I conduct training sessions, I often notice that some participants hesitate to ask questions due to fear of being judged or making mistakes. To create a safe and supportive learning environment, I refer to the conference room as the learning lab, where it's okay to make mistakes and learn from them.
Instead of assuming that someone isn't participating because they are shy or introverted, consider that they may not feel safe asking questions. Whether leading a meeting or participating as a team member, try to create a safe space for others by being an ally and making them feel valued. For example, you could acknowledge someone's contribution by saying, "You made some good points earlier, and I think the rest of the team would benefit from hearing your thoughts."
Belonging is created when we practice safe spaces - the "B" in DEI.
Valentine's Day is typically associated with romantic love, but it's important to remember that it's also a day to express our love for others. Whether you're at work, running errands, or spending time with loved ones, take the opportunity to spread kindness and love to everyone you meet.
Happy Valentine's Day!
Other resources to support you in elevating your year:
I'm super excited to be about ready to offer some upcoming Relearning Leadership content so you can ignite and empower yourself and your teams. More specific info is coming soon. We love introductions, so please feel free to share with your network.
Click here to learn more about the public workshops.
Click here to learn about the Mastermind group.
The most recent Champ Chat was today; you can catch the recording. The title, Breaking Barriers: Empowering Conversations about DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion). It was a phenomenal discussion. I encourage you to watch here:
Click to watch:
The next Champ Chat is March 19 at 11:00 PST, and we will discuss Women's History Month: progress from where we were, where we are and where we need to go for complete equality and equity. Stay tuned for more information.
I belong to a wonderful group called Inclusive Leadership in a Virtual World, which meets every Wednesday. Tomorrow, on Valentine's Day, I will speak about the same title as this newsletter: Choose Love To Lead. The meeting is at 10:00AM PST. Join us!
Click here: https://www.linkedin.com/search/results/content/?
Let me hear from you. What challenges are you facing in developing yourself and your team? How can I support you?
Walk through Open Doors in 2024!
Make today matter.
Shine on.
Creating Significance
Michelle Beauchamp
The Champ Group
949-949-690-3108
www.thechampgroup.com
