Embracing Unique Strengths: How Appreciation Transforms Leadership
Britt Design Group at their most recent art show
In my years of coaching an industry-leading design group in Austin, I’ve witnessed a transformation that illustrates the power of shifting from rigid expectations to embracing the unique strengths of each team member. This client, deeply committed to excellence, integrity, and reliability, initially struggled to let go of her attachment to how things were done. Her journey reveals how appreciating diverse expressions of shared values can unlock incredible potential.
Too often, well-intentioned leaders focus primarily on growth opportunities and limitations, unintentionally overlooking the power of consciously appreciating strengths. As consultants, we’ve made the same mistake—thinking we could best help clients by emphasizing blind spots that hinder their goals.
To foster a culture of appreciation, we’ve introduced an exercise during coaching sessions and executive offsites. Participants reflect on and share what they value most in themselves and others. The results are profound, as leaders begin to see their team members in a new light.
One of our guiding principles is Fundamental #20: APPRECIATE AND ACKNOWLEDGE — Regularly let people know you appreciate their qualities. Being acknowledged for a task well done is important; being acknowledged for a character quality is lasting.
For Laura, this meant giving her team the freedom to embody the agency’s values authentically. Instead of micromanaging, she focused on where she could step back. She transitioned from feeling alone in upholding standards to leading a strong, well-rounded team. By leaning on and appreciating each individual’s strengths, the whole became more vibrant and effective.
Link to Business of Home article featuring Britt Design Group: Read the article here
Laura Britt with her three design directors (from left to right): Audra Siao, Laurie Martinez, and Shaunn Quayle. Photo by Bonnie Berry.
“Our leadership team and the entire team stepped up in such a big way that let the business continue to run and thrive.”
Our values shape what we cherish most, but when we unknowingly expect others to express them exactly as we would, we stifle potential. True leadership means upholding non-negotiable principles while creating space for individual expression.
As BDG discovered, shifting from limitation to appreciation unlocks both individual and collective potential. When we empower team members to bring their whole selves to their roles, the impact is exponential.
So, my friend, I invite you to reflect: Where might you be holding on too tightly? Where can you begin to appreciate the unique magic each person brings? When you pair high standards with genuine appreciation, that’s when real transformation happens.
With appreciation,
Marlene
Fundamental of the Week #16: RESPECT CONFIDENTIALITY
Honor the trust others give us. Be rigorous about safeguarding confidential information and be clear to other people about what should be kept in confidence.
Momentum Consulting offers executive business coaching, top-level executive consulting, team training, and team off-sites to build and transform your business to the next level. Inquire about business consulting and leadership coaching today.
