The Power of Encouragement: Teachers, Leaders, and Parents

You probably remember a good teacher you had, one who spotted something good in you, encouraged you, believed in you. They saw your potential, gave you confidence, and instilled in you a sense of self-belief. These teachers leave a lasting impact, shaping our growth and helping us achieve more than we thought possible.

Conversely, you may also have an unhappy memory of a teacher who sadly may have made you feel inadequate. These experiences can linger, casting a shadow over your confidence and self-worth.

I believe Leadership and parenting work in much the same way. Good leaders and good parents provide an environment where individuals can develop self-belief, confidence, and a sense of achievement. Poor leadership, on the other hand, can foster negative feelings, anxiety, fear, and low self-worth.

So, how can we become better leaders and better parents? How can we help others grow and inspire them to reach their full potential? Here are some ideas:

1. See the Good in Others

Like the teacher who saw your potential, strive to see the good in those you lead or parent. Recognise their strengths, talents, and unique qualities. This simple act of acknowledgment can boost their confidence and encourage them to develop their abilities further.

2. Provide Encouragement and Support

Encouragement is a powerful tool. Offer genuine praise and support to help others feel valued and capable. Be their cheerleader, celebrating their successes and helping them navigate challenges with a positive mindset.

3. Create a Safe Environment

People thrive in environments where they feel safe to express themselves and take risks. As leaders and parents, it’s our responsibility to create such spaces. Encourage open communication, listen actively, and show empathy. This builds trust and allows for growth.

4. Model Positive Behaviour

Lead by example. Demonstrate the behaviours and attitudes you wish to see in others. Whether it’s perseverance, kindness, or a positive outlook, your actions can inspire others to follow suit.

5. Foster a Growth Mindset

Encourage a mindset that embraces challenges and sees failures as opportunities to learn and grow. Promote to those you lead or parent that effort and persistence can lead to improvement and success.

6. Be Mindful of Your Impact

Understand that your words and actions have a profound impact on others. Strive to communicate in ways that uplift and empower rather than criticise. Reflect on how your interactions might be perceived and adjust accordingly to promote a positive influence.

7. Listen and Understand

Take the time to listen to others and understand their perspectives. Show that you value their input and experiences. Feeling heard and seen can significantly boost an individual’s confidence and sense of worth.

8. Encourage Autonomy

Empower others by giving them the freedom to make choices and take ownership of their actions. Support their decision-making process and provide guidance when needed, but allow them to learn and grow independently.

9. Promote Balance

Encourage a healthy work-life harmony and prioritise wellbeing. Recognise the importance of rest, relaxation, and personal time. This promotes happiness and reduces burnout.

10. Commit to Continuous Improvement

Acknowledge that being a good leader or parent is an ongoing journey. Commit to continuous improvement, seeking feedback and learning from your experiences. Stay open to new ideas and approaches that can enhance your effectiveness.

What I live by as a Principal & a mother, is while I may not have all the answers, I can aim to ensure others feel heard, seen, and valued. When I make mistakes, I listen and learn. By focusing on these principles, I aim to create positive environments where individuals thrive, achieve their potential, and find happiness.

It is about striving to be the kind of leader and parent who leave a lasting positive impact, just like those memorable teachers who believed in us and helped us grow. It is about aiming to promote a culture of encouragement, growth, and wellbeing.

Courage Starts Here,

Kalea Haran