The Starting Point of All Improvement

Most everyone wants to improve. And because you are here, you clearly value improvement – for yourself, for your team, and for your organization.

There are many things that can help us improve. In one respect, that is the topic of most all my writing. But there is a fundamental, foundational factor that is required – one that truly is the starting point of all improvement . . .

I was very fortunate to grow up with supportive parents that loved me, supported me, and believed in me. Looking back, I knew they did believed in me and I am so blessed that they did. But I didn’t realize at the time that not everyone had that same experience. The more I recognize that fact, the more I value that belief from my parents and others close to me. Then . . . and now.

A Foundation of Faith

In my work with leaders, I often talk about this important starting point. Because it is too often left out of discussions about leadership and life success. And when it is discussed, it is glossed over, assumed, or taken for granted.

It should not be assumed or considered obvious, because neither are true.

For all these reasons, we aren't glossing over it today. I won’t allude to it or assume you know what I mean.

The starting point of all improvement, all growth, all project success, all creativity, all coaching, and much more is belief.

Consider these questions . . .

• If you don't believe someone will succeed, will you help them (or be patient with
  them)?
• If you don't believe the project will work, will you give it your all?
• If you don’t believe the problem will be solved, how likely will it be?
• If you don’t believe in your team’s ability to reach the goal, how will you help them be successful?
• If you don't believe the effort is worth it, will you expend it?
• If you don't believe it is possible, do you realize when it is?

Those are powerful questions about your belief in things outside of yourself, but let me get a bit more personal . . .

• If you don’t believe in yourself, how can you believe in others?
• If you don't believe in yourself, will you ever reach your potential?
• If you don't believe in yourself, will you even try?

Four Words Can Change Everything

I sometimes end emails or notes, and sometimes even phone calls with “I believe in you.” I say it to let the other person know that someone is on their side. That someone sees something they might not yet see. And I say it to remind myself that I believe in them. Those four simple words can change the attitude and outcomes for both of us today, and perhaps for far longer.

People need to know that you believe in them. Your belief will help build their belief and their hope in themselve. And with those changes comes changes in behavior.

Belief is the starting point of all improvement.

Do you believe in your team? If you do, tell them. If you don’t, work on building that belief.

Do you believe in yourself? If you do, remind yourself. If you don’t, make that your focus. Because as you build your belief, so much improvement in all aspects of your life will follow.