It’s time to make the critical shift from leading the business by yourself to leading an organization of people. At P2Excellence, we help you navigate the uncharted territories of organizational growth with clarity and confidence.
We’re continuing our series on leadership competencies, and this month’s topic is one that’s often misunderstood: Inspiring & Motivating Others.
Some folks think this is about being naturally charismatic. Or the loudest voice in the room. Or someone who always gives a rousing speech. Well—if you know me, you know I don’t believe that for a minute.
Inspiring leadership is something we learn and something we choose.
It starts when we claim leadership, when we say, “I want to be the kind of leader others want to follow. I’m going to keep getting better at this.”
And then we practice. Day in, day out. With intention and with heart. Until trust, consistency, vision, and energy begin to ripple through everything we do—and through everyone we lead.
What Really Inspires People?
It’s not slogans. It’s not rah-rah pep talks. It’s not being “on” all the time.
What inspires people is how you show up—especially on the tough days.
Here’s what they’re watching for:
- Transparency — Saying hard things and hopeful things. Naming what’s real.
- Consistency — Being steady in tone and action. No emotional whiplash.
- Forward thinking — Offering a hopeful, believable view of what’s ahead.
- Great storytelling — Helping people see themselves in the bigger mission.
- Personal ownership — Modeling: “I’m in this with you.”
Not flash. Not spin. Depth. Heart. Integrity.
Followership & Trust
People may comply because of your title but they follow because they trust you.
And trust grows when your actions and words match over time.
When you truly claim leadership, you start noticing:
- What you tolerate.
- What you model.
- What you encourage.
- What story your leadership tells, especially on an average Tuesday.
Every hallway chat, every email, every “small” moment shapes how others experience your leadership. Are you telling the story you want them to follow?
The Power of Story
Story is one of the most powerful tools you have. And too many leaders forget to use it.
Story connects head and heart. It reminds people:
- Why their work matters.
- How they’re progressing.
- What they’ve overcome.
What’s ahead—and why it’s worth striving for.
Data informs. Story moves.
Use stories, both big and small, to help your team stay connected to meaning, mission, and momentum.
Claiming Leadership
You can’t inspire others if you haven’t claimed leadership yourself.
That starts with this: “I want to be a leader worth following.”
And then: practice. Pursue growth—not perfection.
Here are ways to build an inspiring presence:
- Communicate clearly and often. Don’t make people guess.
- Be positively visible. Let people see your care and commitment.
- Recognize progress. Celebrate wins—small and large.
- Reinforce vision and purpose. Say it. Repeat it. Live it.
Own your mistakes and model resilience. No deflection. People watch how you handle setbacks.
Why Now?
Right now—midyear—is a moment when teams need renewed energy. A reason to believe in what’s possible.
If you don’t intentionally inspire, teams will drift. They’ll get the work done—but they won’t give their best.
You can change that—today—by deciding to lead in a way that motivates and matters.
Why You?
Because you’re reading this and that tells me you care. You’re already growing as a leader. And that matters more than natural charisma ever will. Keep going. Choose leadership again and again.
Remember: It’s not about being someone you’re not. It’s about bringing the best of who you are to your people and helping them do the same.
Challenge:
Sometimes it feels easier to “just fix it” than to hold someone accountable. Or to adjust the goal rather than have the hard conversation. That’s human.
But beware: When we trade clarity for comfort, we chip away at trust.
Holding others accountable isn’t about being harsh - it’s about being clear, consistent, and committed to shared success.
Self Reflection:
Ask yourself,
“Where have I lowered the standard to avoid conflict or to be liked?”
It’s a tough question. But it’s the kind that moves us forward.
Integrity means choosing what’s right over what’s easy, even when no one’s watching.
Hack:
Not sure how to hold someone accountable without damaging the relationship?
Try this: Start with ownership. Say, “Here’s what I expected, and here’s what I observed. Let’s talk about how we can close that gap.”
Keep the focus on clarity, not blame. And always follow through.
And if it’s yourself you need to hold accountable? Write it down. Say it out loud. Own it first—then act.
When to Consider Hiring a Coach:
If you're noticing recurring patterns, missed deadlines, unspoken tensions, or frustration when things fall through the cracks, a coach can help you get underneath it.
Together, you can:
- Clarify expectations
- Identify gaps in follow-through
- Build habits that reinforce consistency and trust
Accountability starts with self-awareness. A coach can help you build it.
Action Steps:
This week:
- Name one place where you need to raise the standard.
- Make the conversation or the decision you’ve been avoiding.
- Reflect on how it feels to choose clarity even when it’s uncomfortable.
That’s leadership. That’s integrity.
I Believe In You
You don’t have to be perfect to be accountable. You just have to be real.
I believe in your willingness to lead with both honesty and courage and to model the kind of integrity that inspires others to rise.
Join the Conversation
Let’s continue this discussion on LinkedIn. I’d love to hear your insights, experiences, and successes (or stumbles) as you strengthen your Emotional Intelligence.
Please Spread the Word
We’d love for you to refer Tuesday’s to other leaders in your network. Please share this post and encourage your colleagues to subscribe.
Here’s to a month of clear, impactful communication together!