Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek

Simon Sinek asks the question, “Why do only a few people get to say, I love my job?”  He expresses in his book how amazing it would be for us to live in a world where the majority of individuals find themselves waking up inspired to go to work every day, feeling both trusted and valued throughout the day, and returning home at the end of the day fulfilled from their efforts and proud of their work.  He believes this is not too farfetched.  In fact there are many leaders of successful organizations across the world that are creating exceptional working environments that enhance teamwork, allowing employees to achieve remarkable things.

In order to begin to establish an amazing culture, a leader must build trust and credibility through the value of empathy.  Empathy, is the single greatest asset for a leader to be successful.  If employees believe that the leader would protect and support them, then in return they would do the same for their leader.  Next, there must be sense of belonging.  There should be a foundational shift in the culture from “me” to “we”.  In order to fully accomplish this, employees must know there is a circle of trust.  Individuals must believe they can present new ideas, collaborate together, attempt new innovative practices knowing that even though they may fail, that they are supported to try and learn from their mistakes.

A leader working to create and exceptional environment, must find ways to encourage individual growth, leadership, and ownership among employees, as well as, nurture collaboration and teamwork.  Everyone on the team must know their purpose in the organization and what they are working for.  It is essential to want others to succeed and know they are cheering you on as well!