Observing others navigate, mitigate, and sometimes avoid risks has made me reflect on my own relationship with risk. Decisions, whether to jump in or step back, have never come easily to me. Typically, I meticulously weigh the pros and cons before making significant choices. I’ve often envied those who boldly throw caution to the wind, take chances, and find success. My internal dialogue usually follows with, “If only I could do that.”
For many of us, fear becomes a powerful force, either keeping us safe or holding us back. Last year, during a visit to Ireland, I grasped the symbolism behind the Lucky Charms cereal’s rainbow branding. Ireland indeed has rainbows everywhere, and chasing the pot of gold at each rainbow’s end would be exhaustive. Similarly, we often treat our own lives and dreams as if they are multiple rainbows, either tirelessly chasing societal expectations or resigning ourselves to the belief that success is for others, not for us.
In the past year, I’ve had the privilege of facilitating groups where leaders embraced the idea that success and fulfillment are within their reach. They refused to remain apathetic, taking affirmative action and saying “yes” to their own aspirations—their personal rainbow. These individuals took calculated risks that paid off, choosing paths aligned with their values and happiness.
These leaders actively sought companies and cultures that resonated with them, understanding that internal happiness would guide their true North Star. They also realized the power of speaking up for themselves, influencing positive outcomes not only for themselves but for others within their organizations.
Risk, often associated with uncertainty, transforms when you know precisely what you want. Clarity eliminates chance, making the path tangible and achievable. A little push with a “you can too” becomes the catalyst for change.
This is where encouragement plays a vital role. Witnessing others succeed creates awareness that success is attainable. It becomes infectious, tangible, possible, and probable. By sharing success stories, we build a vibration of possibility in others, freeing them from staying stuck in their current situations.
Encouragement is not only emotionally uplifting but also has neurological implications. Positive encouragement can contribute to neuroplasticity (your brain’s ability to relearn), enhance self-efficacy, and boost self-confidence.
During the pandemic, the spotlight was on the other E word: Empathy. As a coach, I recognize that leaders and teams are still struggling to find their footing. One way to extend support to them is through the powerful expression: Encouragement.
So, how can we communicate encouragement?
- Active Listening: Listen to their thoughts so that you can validate and support. Reflecting back to them what you heard acknowledges their ideas and fosters encouragement.
- Positive Words: Our words create worlds. Notice when projects have been completed; notice the time; notice the effort. Expressing belief in someone’s ability transforms their confidence and motivation.
- Constructive Feedback: Frame challenges through the lens of strengths supports individuals to see these opportunities as growth.
- Communicate Confidence: Let others know that you believe in their ability to succeed. This will boost their self-esteem and provide a catalyst to take on larger challenges that may feel risky.
- Encourage Independence: Expressing confidence in a person’s abilities fosters autonomy and self-efficacy.
While the prospect of taking risks may seem daunting, encouragement stands as its counterbalance. Every day presents an opportunity to be a source of encouragement, opening up a world of possibility for others. If your team finds itself stuck, remember that they don’t have to remain there. Encouragement has the potential to be the catalyst for positive change, allowing for empowered risk to be taken.
It’s crucial to recognize that encouraging others not only benefits them but also contributes to your own well-being. The act of encouragement creates a positive feedback loop, fostering social and emotional rewards that enhance the overall dynamics within the team. By actively embracing encouragement, leaders can pave the way for a more resilient, motivated, and supportive environment.
Your teams will step into risk that has been reframed as possibility. You can too!
Robin Miller is our Executive and Leadership Communication Coach. She specializes in team interpersonal communication and executive communication using the Advanced 360LiC Assessment. Contact ARTiculate: Real & Clear today to learn more.
