The Leadership In Focus: Weekend High-Five - November 9, 2024
Here we are, heading into the second full week of November! With the clocks officially turned back, holiday decorations going up, and Hallmark movies in full swing, it’s clear the festive season is upon us. Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales are just around the corner, reminding us that the year is quickly drawing to a close.
This week, as many reflect on recent election results in the U.S., there’s a greater need for us to put a renewed focus on the power of communication and the importance of finding common ground. Now, perhaps more than ever, it’s vital to remember that no matter our perspectives, we likely have more in common than we might think.
Here’s to focusing on what unites us, setting the stage for a strong finish to 2024, and diving into this week’s Leadership In Focus: Weekend High Five!
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Quote of the Week:
“Beware of destination addiction: the idea that happiness is in the next place, the next job, and with the next partner. Until you give up the idea that happiness is somewhere else, it will never be where you are”
-Robert Holden, Ph. D.
Takeaway: It’s healthy to have goals and strive for more, but when that focus turns into an unhealthy “it will be better when…” mindset, we lose sight of the present. True joy is found in both the journey and the destination, and being fully present in both stages is essential to realizing that joy.
Action Item: Each day this week, take a moment to reflect on the joy and lessons you’re experiencing in pursuit of your larger goal. Also, recognize how far you’ve come and note the greatest “aha” moments you’ve had along the way
Interesting Read: Research: Performance Reviews That Actually Motivate Employees | by Joonyoung Kim and Emily Zitek
In a shift away from data-heavy, numerical reviews, research shows that narrative-based feedback motivates employees more effectively, offering personalized insights and clearer paths for improvement. However, while narrative feedback is seen as fairer, situations involving monetary rewards or very positive reviews may still benefit from numerical elements for transparency. The study highlights the importance of blending context-rich feedback with clarity on outcomes to enhance engagement and morale.
Key Takeaway: Narrative feedback provides employees with meaningful, actionable insights, but for situations where tangible rewards are involved, combining it with numerical clarity can increase perceptions of fairness.
Action Item: Consider implementing a narrative performance management system that encourages a shared language, helping employees understand feedback clearly and constructively. Ensuring consistency in meaningful, actionable dialogue can be challenging, but it’s key to motivating teams. If you’d like to explore how Leadership In Focus can support you in this process, please contact us directly.
As we continue on this leadership growth journey together, here are the 5 big ideas we discussed this week at Leadership In Focus:
Monday, Nov 4th: 2025 Leadership Trends You Can’t Ignore 🚀
The leadership landscape is shifting fast, and 2025 trends are no exception. Leaders must filter out the noise and focus on the essentials to stay ahead.
Tuesday, Nov 5th: If You’re Not Sore Tomorrow, Are You Really Growing?
Growth isn’t always comfortable—it’s often full of small setbacks and doubts. Embrace the discomfort; it’s a sign you’re moving forward.
Wednesday, Nov 6th: 25 Years Together 👩❤️👨: Leading with Heart ❤️
Reflecting on 25 years of marriage, we drew parallels between lasting partnerships and leadership: commitment, empathy, and consistent effort make all the difference.
Thursday, Nov 7th: Playing Hard to Get: A Leadership Move? 🤔
Sometimes being less available can empower your team and enhance your leadership impact. Give others space to step up and grow.
Friday, Nov 8th: Some Things Just Don’t Mix 🧪
When team dynamics don’t gel, forcing it won’t help. Focus on aligning what works and let go of what doesn’t.
Closing Thought: This week’s discussions emphasized authenticity, embracing discomfort as a sign of growth, and leading with intention. Are you creating space for your own leadership journey?
From Sunday, November 3, 2024: The Great Employee Opinion Survey Paradox 📝
In last Sunday’s comic, we tackled the irony of employee surveys: leaders love high scores but shy away from tough feedback. Real leadership means facing the hard truths, listening to employees, and acting on their feedback.
The Big Takeaway?
Effective leadership isn’t about presenting a rosy picture; it’s about taking feedback seriously and making genuine improvements.
❓ The question: Are you willing to hear the tough feedback and take action?
Tools & Resources of the Week: Leadership In Focus, Not So Funny, Funnies Greeting Cards
We’ve launched our Leadership In Focus, Not So Funny Funnies greeting cards! Celebrate new beginnings with a touch of humor. Each card from this collection playfully blends everyday workplace scenarios with a personalized message of encouragement. It’s the perfect way to mark significant life events with a mix of wit and heartfelt sentiment.
