We often think making a difference requires a huge effort, a new program, or a lot of time. We can feel overwhelmed just thinking about impacting our team members or those we serve. It’s easier to push this to the bottom of the to-do list and focus on the projects that can be checked off quickly.
In reality, it is the small things we do that can make the biggest difference to others and ourselves. Saying hello and smiling at someone can boost their attitude and energize them to meet challenges. Taking fifteen minutes to listen to someone’s perspective may lead to an amazing insight that otherwise would have been missed. Spending 10 minutes learning about your team’s strengths can allow you to draw on natural talents and allow them to thrive.
Many leaders lament that they do not have enough time to equip their team. They are so busy completing tasks that they feel overwhelmed to add anything to their list. Leaders know the importance of equipping their team, but struggle to make it a priority. Therefore, it continues to get pushed from one list to the next without getting addressed.
However, consider how you could integrate just five minutes of training into your one-to-one meetings, or begin each team meeting with a 10-minute training. You could send a helpful article or share a worthwhile virtual training. Equipping your team does not have to be overwhelming, if we break it down into smaller actions.
The small things really are the big things, whether you are praising your team, planning for an event, or correcting behavior. It is important to weave these priorities into your everyday routine. When you find yourself saying, “I just don’t have time,” remind yourself that if it is a priority, you cannot afford NOT to fit it into your day. What small thing will you add to make a big impact?
