LEAD BY EXAMPLE

When you need to motivate your team to complete a task or to think outside the box on a new project, one of the best ways to see results is through leading by example. You can show each team member how to get started on the road to self improvement by enacting the following seven traits of motivating leadership.

1. Practice authenticity
One of the greatest keys in the field of personal development is the practice of authenticity. Encourage each member of your team to remain true to his or her self, and challenge each individual with questions that probe beneath the surface. Ask questions and demand meaningful answers, rather than letting people answer with sentiments they think you want to hear.

2. Nurture self awareness
By nurturing self awareness within yourself and sharing the journey you undergo with your team, you can motivate them to become more aware of their own thought patterns and actions. A heightened sense of self awareness can improve all aspects of your life, and you will notice a difference in the way you make decisions. This is an important tool to foster among your team when you’re hoping to create a group of powerful individuals.

3. Remember that each step is progress
When you’re focusing on self improvement, remember that each step along the way is progress. The important part of your battle is that you show up and put in the effort each day. Members of your team will recognize the way you remain focused, and can greatly benefit from your example.

4. Strive to be present always
Being present in the moment and feeling into your body can help you greatly in every area of your life that you’re looking to improve. When you’re focused on the moment at hand, you can eliminate the distractions of past and future and turn your attention to what’s important.

5. Challenge yourself and face your demons
Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself and to face the hard questions. By tackling your own toughest issues, you can motivate your team members to begin to deal with some of their most emotional battles through your encouragement and example.

6. Encourage open communication and honest feedback
As a leader, one of the greatest gifts you can give to your team is to request open communication and honest feedback from them. By eliminating the fear they may feel from giving you their actual opinions, you can gain their respect and help them to foster trust in humanity.

7. Reflect often
While you work through the processes of personal development, take the time to reflect on your journey in order to fully understand what’s going on and to set new goals. In a group setting, this can also be a powerful bonding tool.

Setting a goal for team members to work on self improvement may seem like a lofty task for the workplace. However, when you lead by example, you can motivate your team in new and more effective ways.