Heroes and Heroines

I was speaking to a senior colleague about staff engagement last week and my colleague told me a quote that strongly resonated with me, ‘celebrate the team, and prize the individual’. 
  
We often celebrate prominent leaders, Sheryl Sandberg, Warren Buffet, Richard Branson and so many others. Ordinary people perform extraordinary exploits. Their work happens out of view, so they go unrecognised. Their words and deed exemplify and reinforce our core values. Their examples boost us in times of uncertainty and stress, and their stories anchor us. 
  
Let’s tell the stories of our ordinary heroes/heroines. Apparently, attitudes are more likely to be influenced by personal stories than by facts and data. 
  
 My heroes/heroines at work make me always want to do better and feel better. 
  
 My heroes/heroines at work continually reinforce my values by living 
 their values. 
  
 My heroes/heroines at work understand the whys of what we do. 
  
 My heroes/heroines at work create a network of relationships to enable 
 belonging. 
  
 My heroes/heroines at work are not afraid to challenge when a stand 
 needs to be made. 
  
 My heroes/heroines at work provide opportunities for growth and 
 celebrates my accomplishments. 
  
 My heroes/heroines at work lead me and others into the future. 
  
The beauty of my heroes/heroines is that they don’t embody all of these at once. Still, they show a different side to themselves as necessary. Can you see them all around you? Let’s prize the individual. 
  
Can you share the stories of your unsung heroes/heroines? 

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