Our Gifts & Force Multipliers
Yesterday, I did an all day professional development gathering for Wabash River Career and Technical Education and we did an activity using kinetic sand beach castle building. The idea was to develop a project-based learning lesson and create a rubric. When sharing out their great innovations, one instructor and owner of Thompson’s College of Cosmetology, Deanna Kindsvatter, referred to the other members of her project team as “gifts.” For example she said things like, “And Ron was a gift because he knew how to…” I don’t think I’ve ever heard teammates referred to like this. We should, however, consider our teammates and those we serve as gifts.
This made me reflect on a concept I think about in leadership a lot – force multiplication. A force multiplier is really a military science term referring to factors or combination of factors that allow personnel or weapons to achieve more than by themselves alone. In Deanna’s case she was highlighting the different positive impacts of the others in her group and amplifying the efforts of the team, leading to enhanced overall performance and success. Thus, she was acknowledging them as force multipliers.
It was so great to hear Deanna acknowledge others as gifts and it made me ponder how do we make sure we create environments for all our gifts to thrive and we ourselves serving as gifts to others. Here are some thoughts on being gifts and creating force multipliers:
- Empower Your Team: We must delegate responsibilities and trust our team members’ gifts. By empowering them, we multiply our effectiveness through their contributions.
- Cultivate Collaboration: We can encourage teamwork and collaboration among our team members and those we serve. When we work together we can achieve more than any individual could alone, creating a multiplying effect.
- Leverage Technology: Utilize tools and technologies that enhance productivity and communication. This can streamline processes and enable or teams to work more efficiently.
- Develop Others: We must invest in the growth and development of our team members. By mentoring and coaching them, we’re equipping them with skills that elevate the entire team’s performance.
- Build a Diverse Team: A diverse team brings different perspectives and ideas, providing a deep set of gifts, which can lead to innovative solutions. This diversity can amplify our team’s overall capability.
- Communicate Vision: Clearly articulate a shared vision and goals. When everyone is aligned and understands the bigger picture, it directs energy and resources more effectively.
- Foster a Positive Culture: Create an inclusive and supportive environment where team members feel valued. A positive culture enhances morale and motivation, leading to greater productivity.
Byron's Babbles 
[…] Saturday, I wrote about Our Gifts & Force Multipliers. Today, as I think about all of us being gifts I consider George MacDonald’s view on imagination. […]
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