Bottom Line on Top
Ever felt like just another cog in the machine? Doesn’t it suck? When this has happened to me, it makes me feel invisible and unappreciated. But something amazing happens when I’m with people who see me for my whole self. I go from feeling like a tool to a treasure.
When we treat our colleagues as precious individuals rather than expendable commodities, we unlock unparalleled potential, foster deeper trust, and create a thriving, motivated, and connected team. Let's discover the profound impact of valuing people for who they are, not just what they produce.
From Commodities to Precious Gems
One reality of our modern organizational culture is that it’s easy to fall into the habit of treating people like commodities. A commodity is a raw material that can be bought and sold, much like copper or coffee. When we treat people like commodities and succumb to this transactional mindset, it reduces individuals to their output or title, neglecting their unique talents, emotions, aspirations, and potential. Commodification is the underbelly of the issues we see with burnout, toxicity in the workplace, and disengagement.
But when we shift our perspective and see our team members as precious, something incredible unlocks: the magic of seeing each other as whole and worthy. Things that we see as precious are of great value and are not to be wasted or treated carelessly. Each individual you live, work, and do life with has inherent dignity that needs to be seen, appreciated, and honored. When we do this, we can transform our workplaces from mere production lines into vibrant, supportive communities.
Embracing the Precious Mindset
So what’s the antidote? Looking for the inherent value in each person. Said another way: seeing them as precious. Precious items are cared for, valued, and cherished…even if we struggle in our interactions with them.
When we see our colleagues this way, we foster a culture of trust, respect, and mutual support. And the business outcomes are tangible. Team members feel valued for who they are, leading to higher morale, increased engagement, and a greater willingness to go above and beyond.
The Power of Seeing Someone as Precious
How can you build a culture like this within your team?
Show Appreciation: Take a moment to acknowledge and thank your team members for their contributions, no matter how small. A simple "thank you" can go a long way in making someone feel valued. Make it genuine, not performative. The difference is noticeable and starts with your intention.
Listen Actively: When a team member speaks, give them your full attention. Show that you value their input by engaging with their ideas and offering thoughtful feedback. Refrain from interrupting or dismissing. Choose a “yes and” model of conversation.
Personal Check-ins: Show you care about your peers and team members by getting to know them personally, not just professionally. Whether it’s a coffee to chat or a simple check-in at the beginning of a meeting, building a personal relationship alongside a professional relationship will not only help you see that person as precious but also help them feel known and valued as well.
Celebrate Wins: Don’t let the little wins pass by. Something as small as voicing your appreciation or taking a moment to look back on recent progress does wonders to refute the commoditization of people and their roles. Yes, it boosts morale, but it also helps us slow down and appreciate what is precious. Take a moment for awe of what may feel mundane.
Build Trust: Many experts in the leadership space will tell you that trust is the foundation of any effective team. I actually believe that trust is a lagging indicator rather than a leading indicator. It’s an outcome, not an input. Taking steps to make your peers and team members feel seen as whole individuals who are welcomed and valued exactly as they are will help you create a sense of trust over time.
Small Changes, Big Impact: Try It This Week
The value is clear: teams where members are seen as precious tend to have higher morale, job satisfaction, more creative thinking, and innovative risks. This positive atmosphere reduces stress and fosters a sense of belonging and purpose. When team members feel genuinely valued, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated, leading to better overall performance and lower turnover rates.
Ready to make a shift in your team? Who do you need to see as precious this week? And how are you going to create a ripple effect of positivity within your team? An easy place to start: forward this blog to your team. Let's make our workplaces not just productive but also humane and fulfilling.
Commentaires