Work Shouldn't be Soul-Sucking

Have you ever had a job that energized you? One that made you feel part of a bigger purpose? That got your creative and problem-solving juices flowing? That had you working with other fun and talented people? It’s a pretty amazing feeling, isn’t it? You know who created that environment? Compassionate leaders. 

In contrast, have you had to drag your butt out of bed for a job that made you feel unvalued and disconnected, with people who gossiped, played political games and were generally toxic? Yeah, me too. It’s horrible and de-energizing, especially when your work frustrations bleed into your home life. Guess who created that environment? Yup, leaders who haven’t tuned into their compassionate sides. 

Work doesn’t have to be soul-sucking for your people. You’re the boss. You get to create an environment for an optimal culture to thrive. Use your power as a leader to create a workplace that employees love to be part of.

The connection between employee engagement and business results is undeniable. When people feel energized and valued in their jobs, they perform. They go above and beyond. They will take your business to places you never even imagined if you let them. 

So how do you energize your people? The first step is ensure you have basic foundations in place with your executive team. Author Patrick Lencioni’s model to develop the components of a highly functional team is super effective. It includes trust, healthy conflict, commitment, accountability and results. Once that is in place, leaders need to communicate a clear purpose, objectives and values, then compassionately hold people accountable to those elements. 

Pay attention to the people rooting for you. The people who rally for the company because they believe in your purpose and what you do. Recognize and reward them. 

You have the power to take your company from soul-sucking to soul-energizing. Actively listen. Care. Really care about how your people are feeling and what their development goals are.

It doesn’t take much – showing a little compassion goes a long way.