Two days back, I had to change my gym routine due to my work schedule. As a result, I decided to try out an instructor whose class I have not tried out before. During the class, he kept repeating, “……come on, more energy” to some members of the class and yet there was no change. I had to consciously remind myself to be at a high energy level and keep my focus.
Why did I have to consciously remind myself to be energetic, when being energetic and enthusiastic is something that I am. What was lacking?
The instructor’s energy levels were low. His movements in the Combat class lacked power, enthusiasm and energy. He was eager in his facial expressions but not in his moves and technique, which is imperative in a combat class or in any of the fitness class.
I was reminded of that moment, 4 years back, where my master trainer told me that as a facilitator my energy and enthusiasm levels have to be congruent to what I am saying and to the moment. To quote him “If your energy levels are at 80% then the participants in the class are going to be at probably at 40%-50%. When you keep your energy levels to 150%, then you will have a class with enthusiastic and engaged participants.”
I experienced the lack of enthusiasm and engagement, in the fitness class and have experienced it in the facilitation of trainings or workshops by some other trainers and on some occasions, early on, in my own journey, of being a corporate leadership and communication facilitator.
No matter what role each of us play, we cannot expect others to follow, listen, support or do anything till we play that role in its entirety.
How can you be a leader if you are not:
1.Enthusiastic
If you are not enthusiastic about what you do, what you say, how you look, how you act and say, then you do not lead by example and you will not be able to gain others trust. You will not be credible.
2.Encouraging
When you speak words of encouragement you show others that you trust their potential and recognize and appreciate them. When you see others doing their job well, and show your appreciation and encouragement, you give others a fine reputation to live up to.
3.Getting a Fresh Perspective
Words of command or request mean nothing if you are not willing to be in the trenches. Similarly words of encouragement do not mean anything, if they are not genuine. A leader is one who knows how to let go and does so by getting a fresh perspective. If things are not working, ask yourself what other perspective could you have, to achieve your desired outcome.
4.Prioritizing
Each of us have 24 hours in a day, and yet constrained by time. By not prioritizing, you lose focus and are unable to be enthusiastic and energetic, thus setting a bad example.
5.Accountable
If you are not accountable for your actions, you will not be credible. Accountability is an important trait in every human being.
6.Resilient
Your ability to handle challenges and grow from there and thereby enhance your skills shows your resilience.
No matter how you feel, you can be inspiring as a leader only when you show enthusiasm and energy in what you have to say or do.
How are you being enthusiastic?
How do you manage your moods and other challenges in order to be energetic?
Communication is an essential part of leadership. If you are looking to enhance your communication skills and be an effective leader, please consult me for one -on-one coaching, group coaching, workshops to facilitate a training or as a key note speaker.
Great post Lalita. Such a clear example of leading by example that speaks to everyone!!
Kate
Thank you Kate.:)