In the role of leadership it is certainly important to know when and how to affirm the efforts and achievements of those we serve. Doing so provides a means of honoring those who are committed to the mission and the team.
The key is to know that affirmation is “confirming the truth or the validity of an action.” Therefore the key is to be observant and to “catch people doing something right” – and then to point it out.
Affirmation can include acknowledging actions, attitudes, things said or left unsaid, and intentional effort in a positive direction. We can even affirm mistakes or failures as positive, if doing so points out initiative and good motives targeted at achieving the mission of the organization.
All of us need encouragement. Affirmation, when expressed by leadership and with sincerity, can be a great tool in the arsenal of a leader who desires to motivate and encourage members of the team.
Each of us can ask ourselves as we read this, “Who have I affirmed this week?” In what ways have you expressed affirmation with those you lead?