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How to Create Leadership that Inspires and Empowers : Leadership Reflections in the Rain.

Explore how inspirational and empowering leadership, based on active listening, vulnerability and collaboration, can transform relationships and teams.

By:
Karol Chinchilla
December 9, 2024
Inspiring and Empowering Leadership: Reflections in the Rain

Ah, leadership! That subject that seems so serious, but can be so much fun if we look at it from the right perspective. As I was walking with my nine-year-old son to his training session, in a rain that would make anyone lazy, there was room for a conversation between him and me. My little boy told me about his best friend from his old school, who he was worried about because his older brother wouldn't help him because he was acting like a "bad boss". What a family dilemma! 

This led me to reflect on leadership and how different leadership styles develop from childhood, a topic that, although it sounds dense, can be very entertaining. And this is where the Fuckup Nights community comes in, where we celebrate failures as learning opportunities. 

What makes a good leader?

The importance of active listening

Image 1. Silhouette of child with mother in the rain.
Excerpted from: Pnegg

During our walk, my son told me about his friend and his "bad boss" at home. What a great reminder that a leader must have active listening! A "bad boss" is one who doesn't listen to their team, doesn't understand their needs and instead just waits for reports. Like they are in a boring office meeting! Active listening allows leaders to inspire, empower and connect with their followers, understand their perspectives and in turn create an environment of trust and collaboration.

Practicing active listening is one of the most important leadership skills, which allows you to establish a culture of trust and promote a positive impact on your team. This approach is crucial for effective leadership that not only guides, but also motivates the personal and professional growth of all team members to achieve common goals.

Avoiding Bias: Lessons from Theory U

Here, I have to tell you that as a student and I hope to be a good practitioner of the Theory Uwe are invited to "suspend" judgments and prejudices. In the case of the older sibling, this means letting go of assumptions and really listening to what their younger sibling has to say. It's like opening a box of surprises! This openness can be the first step toward positive change in your relationship. Imagine a world where all the bosses really listen!

When we "suspend" judgments and prejudices, we allow ourselves to adopt a growth mindset. growth mindset that fosters individual development and creates growth opportunities for both the leader and team members. This approach not only reinforces the concept of leadership that inspires and empowers, but also fosters a culture of learning.

Building relationships through co-creation

Empowerment as a key tool

two brother walking together, vector silhouette illustration isolated on white background. 36318575 Vector on Vecteezy
Image 2. Silhouette of two siblings sharing and co-creating together. Excerpted from: Vecteezy

An effective leader not only leads, but also empowers his or her team. When my son mentioned that his friend felt neglected, I realized that the older brother could benefit from involving his sibling in important decisions that affect them both, developing inspirational leadership based on creating a positive, participatory environment that fosters skill development and team growth.

And no, we are not trying to bring drama into the matter; these little ones live only with their dad, there is no mom. Therefore, developing a culture of recognition and collaboration would not only strengthen their relationship, but also allow the younger sibling to feel valued and listened to. victoria for both !

Co-creation fosters a sense of ownership and shared decision-making. Leaders who practice this not only focus on their own goals, but also consider the aspirations of those they lead, shifting the focus away from individual growth to collective growth.

Reflect to inspire and improve

In the rain, as our shoes got soaked, we reflected on how his friend could be an opportunity for his older brother to transform as a leader. Self-reflection allows leaders to recognize their own limitations and areas for improvement. 

Ask yourself,"How can I be a better support to those around me?" This question can lead to a change in behavior that not only benefits mutual understanding between siblings, but also sets an example for others, creating a communication environment based on developing a collaborative culture. It's like a domino effect of positive leadership!

Learning from vulnerability

Admitting mistakes: An act of bravery

The Role of VulnerabilityWe Admit Our Mistakes: this plays a crucial role in leadership. Often, leaders feel that they must show a facade of strength and that they must always make the right decisions. But who said that being human is a sign of weakness? 

Humanizing leadership to strengthen connections

Be vulnerable and acknowledging our struggles can humanize the leader and foster a deeper connection. In the case of the older sibling, admitting that he doesn't have all the answers and needs his little brother's help could be a powerful step toward improving their relationship.Now that's an act of courage! ...sure you may be thinking...Karol but you're talking about kids.... no, not necessarily.

By being honest about our weaknesses and opening ourselves to the possibility of learning from others, stimulating the exchange of ideas and a collaborative environment, we create a space where everyone feels safe to share their thoughts and feelings - a real win-win!

Turning challenges into opportunities

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Image 3. Man dancing in the rain
Taken from: Pin page

Just as rain can be seen as an obstacle, it can also be an opportunity for growth and renewal. Relationship challenges can be catalysts for change and transformation. Instead of perpetuating the dynamics of a "bad boss," we can aspire to exercise a leadership style that inspires, supports and empowers those around us, capable of turning difficulties into opportunities for personal growth and development, for the joint achievement of our goals.

So, the next time you find yourself in the rain (or in a tricky situation), remember: every drop is an opportunity to learn and improve! And if you ever feel lost on the road to leadership, don't hesitate to participate in a Fuckup NightsHere we celebrate failures and learn how to pick ourselves up... or change our path.

True leadership that inspires and empowers is not about perfection, but about evolving with each experience. Get inspired and foster team growth yourself in the rain!

Edited by

Fuckup Nights

How to Create Leadership that Inspires and Empowers : Leadership Reflections in the Rain.
Karol Chinchilla
Designer by Profession - Leadership Mentor - Multiplier B by Passion
As a Costa Rican entrepreneur of my own brand KA, I am dedicated to working on corporate identity with the objective of supporting businesses to find balance in good living. Currently, I am part of the first edition of the foundational ecosystemic leadership program for Latin America of the u-school (U-theory) for transformation.
funfunfunfun

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