Do You Love to See Your Colleagues Flourish?
Take a moment and ask yourself this question:
Do you genuinely love seeing your colleagues flourish?
It seems simple, but it reveals so much about who we are as leaders and colleagues.
When we delight in others’ success, we create an atmosphere where everyone feels valued, safe, and motivated. But when our ego gets in the way—when we feel threatened or envious—it can cast a shadow over the team’s ability to thrive.
What Flourishing Really Means
Seeing others flourish isn’t just about their achievements or accolades. It’s about recognising the joy and growth that comes when people feel safe, supported, and empowered to be their best selves.
Flourishing teams are collaborative, resilient, and full of possibility because every member feels encouraged to contribute without fear of judgment or rejection.
This isn’t just a feel-good philosophy. Neuroscience shows that when people feel appreciated and supported, the brain releases oxytocin—a hormone that strengthens trust and bonds. Flourishing isn’t just personal; it’s contagious, rippling out to energise the entire workplace.
Ego: The Silent Saboteur
But here’s the rub: not everyone instinctively loves seeing others flourish. Sometimes, ego sneaks in and whispers doubts: What if they outshine me? What if their success diminishes my own? These feelings are natural and may reflect our moments of self-doubt and insecurity.
However, if we let them drive our behaviours, attitudes and energy, towards others, they become toxic. When we view others’ growth as competition, we create an environment of fear and scarcity rather than safety and abundance.
In teams where psychological safety is absent, people hoard ideas, avoid risks, and withhold honest feedback. Instead of lifting each other up, they step over one another to get ahead. Over time, this erodes trust and kills creativity.
How to Foster a Culture Where Everyone Can Flourish
As leaders and colleagues, we have the power to shape a culture where flourishing becomes the norm. Here’s how:
Celebrate Others’ Wins
Make it a habit to acknowledge and celebrate your colleagues’ successes. Whether it’s a quick shout-out in a meeting or a heartfelt note of appreciation, these moments show that you value their contributions.
Share the Spotlight
As a leader, step back and let others shine. Encourage team members to take ownership of their successes and enjoy the recognition they’ve earned.
Shift from “Me” to “We” Thinking
Flourishing is about the team, not just individuals. Ask yourself: How does supporting this person contribute to the bigger picture? When we see others’ growth as an investment in collective success, it’s easier to barrack for them.
Build Psychological Safety
Make sure your team knows it’s okay to make mistakes and take risks. Encourage open, honest communication and respond with curiosity, not criticism.
Why It Matters
When we truly love seeing others flourish, we unlock the potential for extraordinary outcomes. Teams that thrive on mutual support are more innovative, more adaptable, and more engaged. And as leaders, there’s nothing more rewarding than watching someone step into their full potential, knowing you played a part in their success.
So, let’s return to the question: Do you love to see your colleagues flourish? Your answer might just shape the way you lead, connect, and inspire those around you.
This theme was one of the many topics for discussion this month in the Thriving Professional Women’s program. I shared it here, because it seems that this would have to be one of the most fundamental questions to ask ourselves.
If you are looking for programs to strengthen your skills as a leader to support growth amongst your team, please reach out and I can share what is on offer.