When we talk about leadership, we tend to focus on the individual — the person in charge, the one making the decisions, the one inspiring the team. But real leadership isn’t just about how one person leads; it’s about the environment they create for everyone around them.
A conversation I had recently drove this point home in a new way. We expect people to do their best, but we don’t always stop to ask whether we’ve set them up for success. Even the most capable person will struggle if they’re surrounded by negativity, roadblocks, or a lack of support. Think about a time when you were in a tough environment — maybe an unsupportive boss, unclear expectations, or just a general feeling of being undervalued. How well did you perform under those conditions? Probably not as well as you could have.
That’s why one of the biggest responsibilities of a leader is to create an atmosphere where people can thrive. And this isn’t just about telling someone they’re capable — it’s about making sure they feel it.
From Directives to Shared Goals
One of the best ways to create that kind of environment is to shift from giving orders to working toward shared goals. This is something I’ve written about before, and it’s powerful in all kinds of relationships — whether you’re leading a team at work, parenting your kids, or working through a challenge with your partner. When people feel like they’re part of something bigger rather than just following directions, they’re more engaged, motivated, and creative.
Are Your Decisions Still Serving You?
Another key part of fostering empowerment is being willing to step back and ask, Are the decisions I’ve made still working? Leadership isn’t about making a choice once and sticking to it no matter what. The best leaders check in, reassess, and adapt. That kind of flexibility makes people feel safe to speak up, try new things, and contribute in meaningful ways. (More on that here.)
Your Physical Space Matters, Too
And here’s something you might not think about: the physical environment plays a role, too. Clutter, chaos, or even just a dull, uninspiring space can drag people down. A clear, organized space — whether it’s an office, a meeting room, or even your home — can have a huge impact on energy, focus, and creativity.
How to Create an Empowering Environment
So what can you do to make sure you’re setting people up for success? Here are a few simple but powerful shifts:
- Make space for open conversations. If people feel like they can’t speak up, they won’t. Create a culture where questions and new ideas are welcomed.
- Trust people with responsibility. Handing over real decision-making power — not just tasks — helps people feel a sense of ownership and pride in their work. It also goes a long way toward developing their problem-solving skills and leadership abilities.
- Give people the tools they need. Whether it’s training, resources, or just a little extra support, making sure people have what they need can make all the difference.
- Celebrate wins — big and small. Recognition goes a long way. A simple acknowledgment can boost confidence and motivation.
At the end of the day, leadership isn’t about being the loudest or the smartest person in the room. It’s about creating a space where everyone can show up as their best selves. The question is — are you lifting people up?
Photo by Lesly Juarez on Unsplash
