Hello, my friend, and welcome to The Better Life Better Business Podcast. Whether you’re back again or whether you’re here for the first time, I don’t take it for granted that you’re here listening, sharing part of your day with me.
Today, we have an unexpected source of inspiration – Elmo from Sesame Street. Yes, you read that right. In this episode, we explore the concept of leading like Elmo and the profound impact that genuine connection and empathy can have on individuals and organizations.
The Power of Elmo’s Question
A few days ago, Elmo, the beloved Sesame Street character, asked people on social media platforms, “how’s everybody doing?” The response was overwhelming, with hundreds of millions of views and thousands of comments. Elmo’s simple question created a space for people to share their experiences, hopes, and struggles. It reminded us of the power of genuine connection and empathy. People responded to Elmo with heartfelt messages, opening up about their challenges and seeking comfort in his kind words. It is heartwarming to witness the impact a beloved character like Elmo can have on people’s lives.
Connecting Through Shared Experiences
The outpouring of responses to Elmo’s question highlights a universal truth – we are not alone in our struggles. As a motivational speaker, I like to acknowledge the challenges people face and the complexities of their emotions early on in a presentation, before getting to the “fun stuff.” It’s essential to create a safe space where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported. Elmo’s genuine concern for people’s well-being resonated deeply because it provided a platform for connection and community. Through his responses, Elmo conveyed love, care, and support. These simple actions brought comfort and a smile to countless individuals. It is a reminder that authenticity and empathy go a long way in creating meaningful connections.
Leading with Empathy
The concept of “leading like Elmo” speaks volumes about the kind of leadership that can transform individuals and organizations. It requires leaders to be attuned to their employees’ emotional well-being, showing genuine compassion and empathy. In a world filled with constant uncertainty and disruption, leaders who prioritize connection and empathy gain a significant competitive advantage. By creating a culture where people feel cared for, leaders foster resilience and promote individual and collective growth.
Acknowledge Feelings, Create a Supportive Culture
Acknowledging the feelings and struggles of individuals is crucial for both leaders and non-leaders alike. Brené Brown beautifully encapsulates this idea by stating, “Leaders must either invest a reasonable amount of time attending to fears and feelings or squander an unreasonable amount of time trying to manage ineffective and unproductive behavior.” By attending to the fears and feelings of others, leaders demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of their team members. In turn, this creates an environment where people feel safe to express themselves and collaborate effectively.
The Shift to Whole-Person Leadership
In the past, the notion of leaving personal issues at the door while at work may have been more prevalent. However, in the modern world, where personal and professional lives are often intertwined, whole-person leadership is more essential than ever. Leaders must recognize that individuals bring their entire selves to work, and by embracing and supporting the whole person, they can unlock their team’s full potential.
You Are Not Your Feelings
One key lesson in managing our feelings and helping others with the management of theirs is the understanding that we are not defined by our feelings. Feelings are temporary, and circumstances change. It is essential to label our emotions and acknowledge them, but also to remember that we have the power to shift our perspective and create our experiences. By recognizing our ability to change our thoughts and behaviors, we regain control over our lives and navigate through challenges with resilience.
Conclusion
In a time where burnout and disconnection are pervasive, Elmo’s simple question, “how’s everybody doing?” reminds us of the power of genuine connection and empathy. Whether you are a leader in your organization or simply a caring individual, you can make a difference by leading like Elmo. By prioritizing connection, empathy, and whole-person leadership, you create a space where people feel seen, heard, and supported. Together, we can overcome challenges, thrive, and create a better life and better business for all.
Remember, you are not alone in your struggles, and your feelings are temporary. Embrace the power of connection, empathy, and resilience. Lead like Elmo and unleash the potential within yourself and those around you.
Mentioned in this episode:
- NPR feature: “Elmo takes a turn as a therapist…”
- Susan David and Adam Grant on Toxic Positivity
- Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
For more inspiration and guidance to support you on your journey to create the life, work, or business that you truly love:
- Download Shawn’s latest ebook titled “Adapt & Thrive: 5 Keys to Cultivate Resilience and Growth in Times of Change” at https://www.shawnellis.com/ebook.
- Read Shawn’s latest blog posts and subscribe to his weekly newsletter at https://offers.shawnellis.com/posts.
- Follow Shawn on your favorite social network @shawnjasonellis.
- Enroll in Shawn’s signature online intensive workshop, “Rock the Reboot,” at https://courses.shawnellis.com/courses/rock-the-reboot.
Image credit: by caiopato
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