“If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else.” – Booker T. Washington
Happy Friday, Brew Nation!
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One of the most crucial responsibilities of a leader is to equip others for growth. It’s not just about achieving personal success; it’s about empowering those around us to reach their full potential and create a ripple effect of positive impact.
In last week’s Brew [Link to last week’s blog post about humility] we explored the vital role of humility in leadership. As we delve into the concept of equipping, it’s essential to revisit this idea. Because, let’s face it, there are many barriers that prevent us from effectively equipping others, and pride is a major culprit.
Think about it: Sharing your knowledge, resources, or even your platform with someone else—especially someone who might be considered a “competitor” or someone who could potentially surpass you—requires a healthy dose of humility. Pride whispers doubts and insecurities, making us hoard information and resist empowering others.
Pride often manifests in ways that resemble a toddler’s behavior. We’re born with this tendency to cling to what we perceive as “ours.” Don’t believe me? Try taking a toddler’s favorite blanket or stuffed animal and watch the reaction. We instinctively want to protect what we possess, even if sharing it would ultimately be beneficial.
Beyond pride, other barriers can hinder our ability to equip others:
- Time: “I don’t have time to develop myself, let alone develop others.” This is a common refrain, but it’s a dangerous trap. Investing in others is an investment in yourself and the future success of your team or organization. It does take extra time to share an article, write an encouraging note, or mail a helpful book. But the long-term returns far outweigh the short-term investment.
- Doubt: “Why would they want to hear from me?” This self-doubt can paralyze us, preventing us from sharing our knowledge and experience. We underestimate the value we can bring to others’ lives.
So, how do we overcome these barriers and become effective equippers? The key is intentionality.
Here are some practical strategies to make equipping a consistent part of your leadership practice:
- Set a Goal: Commit to sharing a specific number of equipping resources each week. I recommend aiming for three—whether it’s an insightful article, a thought-provoking podcast episode, a helpful book, or even a personal anecdote.
- Make it a Process: Integrate equipping into your regular workflow. After you come across something valuable, ask yourself, “Who needs to hear this?” Then, take the time to share it with them.
- Schedule Time: Treat equipping as a non-negotiable appointment in your calendar. Block off 30 minutes each week specifically for sharing knowledge and resources. This dedicated time ensures that equipping doesn’t get pushed aside by other priorities. If blocking off 30 minutes seems daunting, start with 15. The key is consistency, not the amount of time you spend. Even small acts of equipping can have a significant impact.
Let’s face it: Equipping is hard work. It requires intentionality, effort, and a willingness to invest in others. But it’s essential for growth—not just for the individuals you equip, but for your team, your organization, and even your family. As leaders, we are called to equip others, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive and achieve greater impact.
Want to see a powerful model for equipping? Look no further than Jesus. He was the ultimate equipper. Through parables, teachings, and personal example, He equipped His disciples for a higher calling. He invested in them, mentored them, and empowered them to carry on His mission.
Ephesians 4:11-12 reinforces this principle: “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.” (Emphasis added).
Just as Jesus equipped His disciples, we too must equip those around us. It’s not just a good leadership practice; it’s a calling.
Here are some practical ways to equip others:
- Share resources: Articles, books, podcasts, videos, and online courses can provide valuable knowledge and skills.
- Offer feedback and coaching: Provide constructive criticism and guidance to help others improve.
- Delegate challenging tasks: Give others opportunities to stretch their abilities and develop new skills.
- Create learning opportunities: Organize workshops, training sessions, or mentorship programs.
- Celebrate successes: Acknowledge and appreciate the achievements of others, boosting their confidence and motivation.
Equipping is not just about transferring knowledge; it’s about investing in people, believing in their potential, and empowering them to achieve uncommon impact. It’s about achieving excellence that extends far beyond our own individual accomplishments.
Being successful as a leader requires intentional leadership habits. That’s why I developed the Ideal Week template – a tool that helps me identify disciplines and habits needed for success and allocate the necessary time. It guides you through planning your ideal week, ensuring you dedicate time to the activities that bring you closer to your goals.
Want to give it a try? Email me at [email protected] with the words ‘IDEAL WEEK’ in the subject line and I’ll send you a copy of the Ideal Week template complete with a sample to get you started!
- Quote of the week:
“The task of leadership is not to put greatness into humanity, but to elicit it, for the greatness is already there.” – John Buchan – Scottish novelist, historian, and the former Governor General of Canada
What You Need to Do:
Call to Action: Now it’s your turn, Champions. Don’t just read about equipping; do it. Identify three people in your circle who could benefit from your knowledge or experience. This week, commit to sharing one valuable resource with each of them. It could be an article, a podcast, a book, or even a simple word of encouragement. What will you share today?” Let’s connect – email me at [email protected] with ‘EQUIP’ in the subject line, and I’ll share some tips.
It’s an honor to be your trusted “Friday Coffee Guy”. Each week, I’m excited to provide yet another round of curated content that I’ve been reading, listening to, watching, or thinking over. The purpose of the Champions Brew is to inspire, equip and encourage you to become the uncommon leader you were designed to be. I am so grateful for your decision to invest a few moments with me! I hope you enjoyed this week’s edition of Champions Brew. If you did, I would appreciate it if you would share it with someone who might enjoy it as well and ask them to subscribe! I will make sure they automatically get this email every week.
Until next time, Go and Grow Champions!
P.S. – Are you a podcast fan? Maybe the Uncommon Leader podcast is for you. Are you interested in being a guest on the Uncommon Leader Podcast? Do you have a story to tell? Email me [email protected] and let’s have a chat and set something up!!
