In the first part of my recent four-part podcast series with Sheri Lawrence, we explored transformative insights into effective leadership through the lens of TED*® and the 3 Vital Questions® (3VQ). With 14 years of experience practising the principles of The Empowerment Dynamic, having Sheri on my podcast was an honour. She generously shared her time and the greater depth to which she has applied this work in her own life and within her organisation.
In this week’s blog, I’m reflecting on Sheri’s gems of wisdom and integrating lessons from TED*® and the 3 Vital Questions® to enrich our own leadership journeys.
Before we dive in, if you haven’t read or listened to The Power of TED*®, the foundational book by best-selling author, David Emerald, I highly recommend that you treat yourself to this invaluable resource. It’s a quick three-hour read or audiobook that will significantly impact your daily approach. You will find it available on Amazon and Audible.
I’ll also share more helpful resources at the end of this blog to help you incorporate TED*® and the 3 Vital Questions® into your everyday life.
Now, let’s begin!
Embracing Empowerment
Sheri’s Insight:
I wanted to be that leader that I felt good about every night on my way home.
Lesson from TED*® and 3VQ®:
Empowerment starts with self-awareness.
To embrace empowerment, ask yourself David Emerald’s first of the 3 Vital Questions: Where are you putting your focus? Are you focused on the problems you and your team face or the potential outcomes that can be achieved together? Shifting your focus can inspire a more positive environment.
Moving Beyond the Dreaded Drama Triangle (DDT)
Sheri’s Insight:
I have the ability to control how I handle things.
Lesson from TED*® and 3VQ®:
Recognising your role in any situation is crucial.
The second of the 3 Vital Questions® is How are you relating? Are you engaging in the Dreaded Drama Triangle (DDT)® roles of victim, persecutor, or rescuer? Consider adopting the TED*® roles of creator, challenger, and coach for a more constructive dialogue that promotes empowerment within your team.
The Power of Listening
Sheri’s Insight:
I love being able to understand their perspective.
Lesson from TED*® and 3VQ®:
Active listening is a game-changer.
The third of the 3 Vital Questions® is What actions are you taking? Are you merely reacting to immediate concerns, or are you taking the time to understand your team members’ viewpoints? By practicing empathetic listening, you create a space for collaboration and innovative problem-solving.
Growing Through Kindness and Humility
Sheri’s Insight:
I’m kinder, more humble; I listen so much better than I ever did before.
Lesson from TED*® and 3VQ®:
Kindness and humility are essential qualities of effective leadership.
Understand your DDT® and TED*® roles. Reflect on how you are relating to yourself and others. Are you creating a culture of respect and empowerment, or are you caught in cycles of blame and defensiveness? Embracing kindness will significantly shift team dynamics.
The Daily Commitment
Sheri’s Insight:
I knew that on a daily basis, I would feel good about how I interacted.
Lesson from TED*® and 3VQ®:
Daily self-reflection is key.
Ask yourself: What actions are you taking? Are you committed to continuous growth and improvement, or do you find yourself stuck in reactive patterns? Setting aside time for reflection can enhance your leadership effectiveness and ensure you’re aligning with your vision.
Conclusion
I recognise that these insights reflect my perspective, and each of us has our own unique views. What questions or thoughts have arisen for you from these lessons?
I will continue to mine Sheri Lawrence’s gems of wisdom. I encourage you to consider how you can apply these insights to your own leadership journey. By engaging with the 3 Vital Questions® and embracing the principles of TED*®, we all possess the power to transform our experiences and develop a positive culture within our businesses. This transformation will extend into your personal relationships, enriching them as a delightful bonus.
We make a choice about how we show up in life and how we lead our teams. Leadership is a role filled with many moments of self-discovery and empowerment.
I hope you find the time to reflect, engage, and inspire those around you.
Resources
To support your growth, I’m pleased to offer discounted access to the companion eCourse titled The Power of TED*® Workbook. This easy-to-follow, self-directed learning opportunity includes a downloadable PDF workbook. Bonus: it will give you access to a weekly event called Let’s TED*® Together, a 30-minute drop-in discussion to deepen your learning and practice of TED*.
Join a worldwide community that appreciates the life-changing benefits of TED*® and 3VQ®.
If you’re interested in accessing this resource for yourself or for each member of your team, please contact me. You can use these links: my contact form or perhaps book a short phone call or Zoom call, especially if you have more questions that would be easier to cover directly.
Take care,
Susan