Leading with Glimmers

Ever noticed how a simple moment—a shared laugh or a brief encounter with beauty—can uplift an entire day? These “glimmers” are essential in the workplace, especially during challenging projects. Here’s how to lead a team through tough times while celebrating these moments of joy:

1. Recognize the Power of Glimmers

• Boosting Morale: Small, joyful moments can significantly enhance team spirit and resilience.

• Enhancing Creativity: Encouraging lightheartedness can lead to innovative thinking and problem-solving.

2. Foster a Culture That Celebrates Joy

• Lead by Example: Share your own glimmers to set a precedent for the team.

• Encourage Sharing: Create platforms where team members can share positive experiences, fostering connection and camaraderie.

3. Integrate Glimmers into the Workflow

• Flexible Scheduling: Allow short breaks for activities that bring joy, such as quick team games or sharing inspiring stories.

• Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate minor achievements to create moments of joy and motivation.

4. Learn from Leading Companies

• Google’s “20% Time”: Google allows employees to dedicate a portion of their time to passion projects, fostering innovation and joy.

• Zappos’ Fun Culture: Zappos encourages a fun and quirky work environment, enhancing employee satisfaction and creativity.

5. Apply Strategic Leadership

• Empathy and Servant Leadership: Leading with empathy and serving your team can create an environment where joy naturally occurs.

• Strategic Ambiguity: Embracing uncertainty can lead to unexpected glimmers and innovative solutions.

By integrating glimmers into your leadership approach, you not only enhance team morale but also drive innovation and success. How do you incorporate moments of joy into your team’s daily routine? Share your experiences below.