Because of You

What a wonderful thing it would be to have someone say, “Because of you, I succeeded.” “Because of you, I didn’t give up!” If you want people to produce more, raise their level of competence, perform at a higher standard, and deliver more than expected, consider the following suggestion.

Let these four-word phrases become part of your everyday vocabulary.

Great teachers, managers, coaches, and leaders all understand the power of positive influence. They consistently:

• Show them the way

• Help them keep trying

• Make them feel special

• Be a confidence builder

• Help them learn more

• Inspire them to succeed

• Prepare them to win

• Show faith in them

  
  

It’s not always strength that pulls us through—it’s the presence of someone who believes in us, even when we can’t believe in ourselves. You’ll be amazed at the power of phrases like “I believe in you” or “You can do this.” If you don’t believe me, try it. It costs nothing, but saying nothing could cost everything. Never forget:

All GREATNESS requires CONFIDENCE.

All CONFIDENCE requires HELP.

Sadly, some people in positions of authority think being mean, cruel, or condescending is an effective way to motivate others. I’ve encountered more than a few managers, bosses, and teachers who were simply unkind. They believe their title—Supervisor, Vice President, District Manager—gives them the right to speak and act however they want; their employees are now “below” them. That kind of mindset drives talented people away. That’s why so many are saying:

"Because of you, I quit.”

"Because of you, I hate my job.”

“Because of you, I dread coming to work.”

“Because of you, I’m joining the competition.”

People don’t leave companies. They leave their bosses.

And it doesn’t happen overnight. It builds slowly—one unacknowledged effort at a time, one dismissive comment after another. We think we just need to try harder: stay late, take on more, sacrifice weekends. But no matter what we do, it’s never enough.

We’ve all watched good people burn out and walk out.

Because of my boss, I’ve learned the kind of leader I never want to become. I’ve learned the importance of valuing people, building trust, and leading with empathy.

Think back: how did it feel when someone said, “I believe in you”? Wait—if you can't remember the last time someone did ... that’s a problem.

Now ask yourself: when was the last time you said those words to someone else? Can’t remember? That’s a problem, too.

A compliment not given is no compliment at all. Inspiring words not shared are not inspiring at all. Don’t assume people know how they’re doing if you never speak up.

Be the person who causes others to say: “Because of you, I succeeded.”