We all know how powerful words can be. And that power is amplified once spoken or written down! When I write something down, I’m cementing those thoughts in commitment. And when I speak my goals in front of others, the words become a promise. One to which those around me can now hold me accountable! That is the power of communication cubed.
Jason and I recently discussed this topic on this edition of his podcast, The Leaders’ Perspective.
And before we talked about declaring our commitment in words, Jason asked me some great questions:
Can Social Legacy be taught, or is it something we’re born with?
I believe our definition of self and our own Social Legacy can absolutely be shaped and nurtured. In fact, I believe almost everyone wants to contribute! Few people desire to live a completely self-centered life. And that’s why I developed the Offer + Offense model… because people generally fall into one of two camps. Either:
- They know their Offer, what they bring to the table in capabilities, experience, and resources. But they aren’t sure how to direct it.
- They know their Offense, the injustice or opportunity in the world they want to do something about. But it can be overwhelming to consider what one person might be able to do.
I hope the book’s by-chapter reflective exercises help readers do just this – learn to identify and declare their Social Legacies!
Should leaders bring their Social Legacy to the workplace?
Jason noted that some leaders fear speaking up, lest they alienate customer or employees. But in my view, I feel leaders should not only speak up… it’s our responsibility to do so. In fact, the more trust and responsibility a person is given, the more we owe back with the privilege of that position. And frankly, I feel anyone who’s entrusted with a platform but not using it, is being negligent. I just hate wasted opportunity. That said, we should be wise and discerning in how we do so. Three considerations:
- Courage – we need to be brave and step into something that we believe is bigger than ourselves. To be clear, this isn’t the same as fearlessness. Rather, it’s about having the conviction to do what’s right in the face of fear.
- Wisdom – helps us consider where and when we share our personal passions and Social Legacy. It helps us reflect on the company ethos, ensuring we’re in a context that would support, enable, or welcome this kind of leadership.
- Graciousness – stepping out can feel bold, but gentle boldness is often received most openly. This means we’re trying to withhold judgment of others. Rather, we lead with love, standing firm in what we believe in, vs. criticizing what others believe.
How has your Social Legacy influenced your daughter?
I think it’s shaping who she is and who she will become. Just like as leaders, our responsibility is to nurture and cultivate a space where people can thrive, I see a parent’s job as the same. We should be intentionally creating a safe space where our kids can explore, experiment and thrive. And when it comes to Social Legacy, I think my job is to role model.
Does Laini see me investing in the things that matter to me? Does she see my actions following my words? If so, she’ll take away that words are not only really important, but they become the mantra by which we live. And that is truly, the power of communication cubed.
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