The Power of Empowerment
Empowerment.
It is a word that I proudly waive the flag for. A word I have dedicated my life towards. A word that defines me. A word people should embody.
But can empowerment be detrimental?
The simple answer, no. Empowering individuals is like unlocking a new level in a game. There are bonus points, new rooms, and your player can essentially do back flips. When we empower people, it creates an environment where they can bring their full potential forward. They no longer hide behind the fear of “what ifs” or “I can’t.”
As leaders, we want to see every team member as an individual, as a human, and understand their point of view, but we also need to look at the organization as a whole. At the end of the day, what is going to keep your organization afloat?
When we hear the word accountability, it often comes with a negative connotation. It is because it is usually used “as a disciplinary measure when something’s gone wrong and ownership or blame is thrust upon someone.” (Range Blog). It also has the tendency to be associated with a cut-throat environment where there is a sink or swim mentality. This is truly debilitating for some people. George Bernard Shaw once said, “Success does not consist in never making mistakes but in never making the same one a second time.”
To foster true success, people have to feel like they are able to make those mistakes. Missed deadlines, empty promises, and lack of commitment isn’t necessarily the individual’s “fault,” but a reflection of the organization’s lack of empowerment and accountability at work.
True accountability embodies empowerment. It isn’t a black or white concept… it is a grey pathway to success. You want to foster an environment where people are able to truly believe they have the power of change, but also ensure they take ownership of their work. If people are able to believe that they can do something and they receive the proper support, they will be more likely to own their work.
Striking the balance of empowerment and accountability is a delicate dance that I am still trying to find my footing in. Empowerment has shaped my life and has made me who I am. I am able to do what I do today because others have empowered me throughout my life.
Empower people and support them, but not to the point where it is detrimental to the organization. Empowerment isn’t a charity; you’re not doing yourself or that person any favors when you eschew accountability. Everyone has something amazing to offer, they just have to be in the right culture and seat to do so.
