Inspire Success

Success is a journey, not a destination.

When it comes down to it, we are all human beings that are driven by emotion. Like it or not, how we feel about something or someone can fuel (or drain) our purpose and drive for success and profitability. As emotional beings we are all driven, in our own ways, to connect with people, to have pride in what we do, to make a difference in the world and to feel like we belong.

Here are some ways in which you can help inspire success for those around you and for yourself.

Never underestimate the power of a smile
Without getting too geeky on you, smiling releases the feel good chemicals in our brains. Whether we feel like it or not, smiling can help shift our mindset and set us up to be happier. Smiling when we don’t want to isn’t about pretending or being fake, it can be about smiling to become happy. A smile not only helps you it also helps those around you. I bet if you smile at someone they smile back, smiles are contagious.

Say thank you
Saying thank you to someone doesn’t have to be confined to verbal communication. You can also say thank you with an email, a sticky note or any other creative way you can come up with, such as a “Together We Go Higher” postcard. When we appreciate each other and their work we make everyone feel valued and connected to the team.

Ask questions; never assume
It’s funny how often we project our own feelings, past experiences and insecurities onto those around us. Instead of assuming we should communicate openly with coworkers and understand where the other is coming from.

Slow down
Making connections at work takes time and intention. Pause, be present, and make connections that inspire success. Pay attention to what sparks positive connections and what may make someone feel uncomfortable.

Don’t be afraid of failure
Too often as humans we are afraid to even try something for the fear that we might fail. If we are not failing at something we aren’t pushing ourselves and we don’t know our limits. In the words of the great inventory Thomas Edison, “I never once failed at making a light bulb. I just found out 10,000 ways not to make one.” Or for any Ted Lasso fans out there, “Be a goldfish”.