Be Someones "Champion"

When you look up the definitions of this word, there are several. In the leadership influence, development and team context. The one I prefer, is to be a champion for someones cause. To aid someone in their thirst and quest to continuously become better is a great purpose that fuels meaning. To champion ones wanting to get better and build new skills is what each leader must do for others. To champion and fight on someones behalf, defending them against forms of stereotyping, bullying or prejudice, is why we are placed in our world and given the opportunity to make a difference in others lives. Even to sponsor their advancement in their role or for their cause. The other aspect of championing is around how do you help others become more resilient to deal with adversity, anxiety and stress-and NOT by just saying “you will get thru this” or “you can do hard things”-rather providing encouragement and specific strategies. And when a person feels more confidence in themselves, through our championing them, that will fuel their resilience.

One can be a giver or a taker…or something in between. However, there is no doubt that giving of ones time and skills to benefit others helps them and us. Iron sharpens iron. The positive “karma” effect is real. One gets back what they put into it (here with others). Make the investment. It can be rewarding and fuel our own resilience related to our purpose.

So while the typically used definition of champion (often in athletics, but not just there), is one who defeats or surpasses others, take some time and reflect on the form of champion YOU want to be. Is this part of your purpose? Do you see yourself as someone who can help others strengthen or reset/alter their beliefs to get to a better place? The choice is yours to decide just how significant and sustained YOUR leadership “ripple impact” will be.

And as you take on this role, stand strong on your integrity and character. Help others to be open to new facts, data and logic to change their position for good/valid reasons and not simply to suit the situation or purpose in the moment. Our world needs your strength here and not waffling to whatever way the wind is blowing or for immediate gratification or self-serving purposes.

Start NOW in this moment to amp up your intentionality of purpose and through each individual and group interaction, leave those individuals better off than when you first met. Make that your cause. First impressions matter, but the last 10 seconds you spend with a person, may become their biggest defining moment in their life. Make it memorable and inspiring.

In this way, you are doing your leadership part (at work and with family and friends) and with great intentionality (and sometimes great courage) “putting humanity and its future on your shoulders”.