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Your Authentic Leadership “SHiNE Now” Moment:

How to Lighten Up!

In previous posts, I provided a more in-depth look into this thing called humour, and as part of SHiNE, a leadership model I recently created.

Week 1: Was a brief overview, with some initial hints and tips

Week 2: Busting some myths around using humour in the workplace

Week 3: The research behind using humour

And finally today, here is the last and final look at humour, including a much deeper dive into how exactly to do this.

Why is humour even a focus?

In a nutshell, humour in the workplace, when used appropriately, creates connection. And it may be one of the more powerful tools in a leaders toolbox. That connection, creates greater understanding, increases collaboration, and may help create more win win situations.

In addition to connection, humour also:

• Creates Influence and Power (Power here is not the darker side, but rather, in negotiations for example, create more win wins, or help people leave negotiations, feeling more positive about outcome)
• Stimulate Creativity (Humour can make the environment feel lighter, which then allows folks the space to take risks and be more creative.)
• Fosters Resilience (Workplaces are stressful enough. And this by itself, can be tiring, and can wear on coworkers and teams. Using humour, to lighten the room, is one way, to create the space and breathing room, for folks to release that tension.)

So, what exactly is my style of humour?

Aaker and Bagdonas have answered this question! In their humour quiz (what else would they call it), they identify 4 styles of humour:

• StandUp humor comes naturally to folks who use it, and they often are scared to lean into darker directions. They tend to focus on jokes that would appeal to the masses or the middle of the crowd. They particularly are adept at laughing at themselves.
• Sweethearts prefer use understated humour and their use is prepared and planned. They prefer to not use sensitive topics for humour.
• Magnets use humour to change the mood in a room and their jokes usually come across as warm, and they exude charisma. They too will avoid anything hurtful or controversial. (This is my style.)
• Snipers are tend to feel most comfortable with providing a more edgy or sarcastic style, and they often tackle the elephant in the room. (What this also means is that there may be many in the room who wish they could have pointed out the same thing, but glad this person did.)

Aaker and Bagdonas have also gone a step further and “codified” these styles in the following manner:

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The authors add: “When it comes to the content of someone’s humour, we’ve found that it ranges found that it ranges from to aggressive (humour that’s no-holds-barred and a few shades darker). Meanwhile, someone’s humour delivery can range from expressive (spirited, spontaneous, spotlight-seeking) to subtle (understated, premeditated, and full of nuance).”

As discussed in previous posts, being an authentic leader is key, or the secret sauce. By being more you, and doing what comes naturally, you bring your highest self to the table. (And the How to Fascinate assessment reinforces that same point.)

This very short 10 minute quiz helps you better understand what style feels natural. Staying in your lane, and being natural with humour, is the key.

So what are some sources of humour?

If you don’t know where to start, or need a few ideas for sources of humour, here are a few:

• Differences — areas where folks may differ or some areas of contrast
• Emotions — the irony you feel or how you really feel about something
• Opinions — what you think (or what you really think)
• Pain — this usually means, being able to laugh at yourself
• Delight — something that just makes everyone smile aka dogs

How can we use humour in the everyday communication in the office?

In my previous posts, I provided a few hints and tips on how to use humour in the workplace. Now I want to have a closer look at how to inject some humour into everyday communication. Here are a few:

• Use callbacks — or recall a situation that you and a colleague shared, that maybe at that time, was tense, but you got through it. Recalling how you survived it, in spite of everything, often builds a bond.) (I do this often.)
• Spice up your email signature — instead of leaving “sincerely” use a tag line or a closing that sums up the irony of the content, or your emotion around having to send this communication, etc. (I do this often.)
• Choose content strategically — think about the colleague or coworker, and share a mutual thought or irony, that both of you share. Or use a common interest and highlight the humour. The goal is to use humour to bring you closer together and to create that connection in your correspondence.

So that, is just a few ways to use more humour in the workplace. If you already do this often, thank you again. Workplaces are serious enough already. If you needed the signal or permission to do it, I hope these posts gave you that, and also showed how using this tool is grounded in research.

And next week, we go onto the next letter in H – humility!

Till next week.

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Ps. You’ll notice that some of the links take you to my new website: Basiasbliss.com. It’s a work in progress, and please don’t mind the construction. It’s going through an overhaul, and will not only have the pasts posts I did but also more information on the workshops and services I hope to make available. It’s a project of love, but full of cringe-worthy moments, for now.

PPS. I actually wrote this post…twice. The first time, I dotted the i’s and crossed the t’s, and then the whole post went “poof” and disappeared. After curling up into a ball, and using a few choice expletives, I regrouped and from memory, re-drafted it. There is some irony here, that I actually had to use humour, to pick myself up, and rewrite this post. My life, is full.

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Your Authentic Leadership “SHiNE Now” Moment:

A TED Talk You Don’t Want to Miss!

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I write this next instalment on humour as I enjoy some R and R, for my 32nd birthday! Kidding. It’s next week. And my 32nd birthday.
But as a gift to myself, I am disconnecting from my work – work that I am extremely passionate about – and just taking the next week to focus on myself…and then I will be back next week.

Even though I am very passionate and dedicated to you, and this work, I am taking a moment to recharge. By recharging, I am able to find the humour in the every day, even in very serious situations.

So this weekend, instead of sharing the written word, I want to share with you, a video by the authors of Humor, Seriously: Why Humor Is a Secret Weapon in Business and Life. It’s a short 15 minute TED Talk video that does an excellent job of highlighting the why, and how. The video is self explanatory.

In case you want to by-pass watching the video, here are two (of many points) that may intrigue you:

Point 1: “Where humour exists, love is not far behind.” (And that is so true.)

Point 2: And if former Secretary of State, Madeleine Albright, can use humour to diffuse very very tense situation and do it publicly, then so can we.

Trust me, you will never look at a piece of jewellery the same and will always wonder, if it’s sending a message!

And on that note, I wish you all a great weekend, and week ahead, and hope all of you have recharged this summer or will recharge soon.

Ps. I realized that one of my graphs from last week’s post may have not gone through. Here now is the “cliff” that the authors referred to.

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Next week, the last and final installment on this thing called humor. And then onto humility and leadership!

Till next week,

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Your Authentic Leadership “SHiNE Now” Moment

SHiNE Your Way to Exceptional Leadership: H is for Humour Part 2

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In my previous post, we explored the immense benefits of incorporating humor into the workplace. And who knew it would be one of my most popular posts on LinkedIn to date. Well it was. But I am not surprised And precisely why SHiNE spends time looking at humour.

I think there is a strong need, especially today, where working in healthcare, government or not for profits is stressful. And no surprise to you.

Like you,I dealt with some very serious issues and concerns, and some of them, were very complex and very heavy. And this heaviness is not unique to these 3 sectors.

So why was this post so popular and reposted many times? What I have observed is that many want and feel the need to have more humour in their workplace. It also tells me that perhaps some feel they need for permission to do it, or that it’s discouraged. Some may feel comfortable with it and do it but need to persuade others that it’s ok to do it. Or it’s a sign that there is a gap in knowledge on how exactly to do it. My observation is – it’s all of the above.

So here now is Part 2 and a deeper look into the practical aspects of using humor in the workplace, based on the book: Humor, Seriously: Why Humor Is a Secret Weapon in Business and Life by Jennifer Aaker and Naomi Bagdonas.​

Why Humor Matters – A Recap

This is not new to you. We are living through a period of unprecedented uncertainty and upheaval in both our personal and professional lives. Trust, human connection, and mental well-being are all on the decline. This may seem like no laughing matter.

As I dig into this deeper, Aaker and Bagdonas point out that globally, there is something they call a humor cliff. And starting at the age of 23, the frequency of laugher drops off at a steep rate and stays like that till we are well into our 70’s.

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Yet, research highlights that humor and laughter are among the most valuable tools we have for strengthening bonds, diffusing stress, boosting resilience, and performing under pressure. (The book and their work is based on a study that included over 1.4 million respondents from about 166 countries. Other fun fact – they also teach a course in Humor at Stanford Graduate School of Business.)

They argue that we have become too serious and its impacting how we “solve important problems, how to conduct ourselves and how to be successful.”

According to the book, humor can significantly enhance workplace dynamics where we are more ourselves and where we create more human connection. For example, other studies show that leaders who use humor effectively are seen as 27% more motivating and admired than those who don’t. Humor also contributes to a 15% increase in team performance and a significant boost in employee satisfaction.

A Few Myths that Need Busting

Aaker and Bagdonas point out that we carry and hold one of four myths, when thinking about using humour in the workplace.

1. Serious Business Myth – This is where folks believe there is no place for humour in the workplace. Aakers and Bogadanas argue that this comes from our insecurity about our lack of experience and where we worry about credibility. They point out research that shows that 98% executive leaders prefer employees to have a sense of humour and a further 84% associate better work with sense of humour. Humour, helps leaders be perceived as more human and authentic, which is what my experience has shown over the years.

2. Failure Myth – Probably one of the bigger reasons folks may not use humour, is the fear of failure or that their humour will fall flat. Research conducted has shown that whether there is laughter or not, is not the main determinant. It’s whether 1) you used ANY humour, and 2) whether it was appropriate. That’s the sweet spot. So go ahead and fail, as long as its appropriate humour. And when it is, it “signals status, confidence and competence.”

3. Being Funny Myth – Here, folks believe that the only way to inject humour into the workplace, that you in fact, have to “be funny” or being able to tell THE best jokes, for example. Rather, they argue that it’s not that at all. That you can bring humour into the workplace, just by having a sense of humour or being able to laugh, or laugh at yourself, or lightening the mood.

4. Born With It Myth – Many believe you are born funny or you are not. And if you are not, don’t bother. (I would actually say, I believed this about myself…once.) They argue, that this isn’t true at all, and research in fact shows, anything can be learned through practice, and using a growth mindset.

Bottom Line

As mentioned previously, mastering humor in the workplace can transform your leadership approach. We all carry myths that may hold us back, from having a more human experience at work.

As the book points out: “President Dwight David Eisenhower once said, “A sense of humor is part of the art of leadership, of getting along with people, of getting things done.” If Eisenhower, the second least naturally funny president (after Franklin Pierce), thought humor was necessary to win wars, build highways, and warn against the military-industrial complex, then you might consider it too.”

And to all the folks in this community, who already practice light hearted humour in the workplace, good on you and THANK YOU. You make a difference. And we need you to keep doing it.

Look for Part 3 next Saturday as we delve into the proven benefits and exactly how to do it.

See you then!

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Your Authentic Leadership “SHiNE Now” Moment

SHiNE Your Way to Exceptional Leadership: H is for Humour

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Humour in the workplace isn’t just about making people laugh; it’s a powerful tool that can transform leadership and team dynamics. Research shows that leaders who use humor effectively are often seen as more approachable and transformational, which can lead to better team performance and job satisfaction. In fact, employees with humorous leaders report higher levels of creativity and are more likely to contribute innovative ideas.

Humour Enhances Creativity and Performance

Leaders who incorporate humour create an open and friendly environment where employees feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas. This openness fosters creativity, as employees are more likely to brainstorm and collaborate without fear of judgment. (Cannot stress this last point enough.) Studies have found that employees who perceive their leaders as humorous are not only more satisfied with their leadership but also more productive and engaged during team meetings.

Real-World Example

Consider a leader who uses humour to ease the tension during a stressful project. By sharing a funny anecdote or a light-hearted joke, they can diffuse anxiety and create a more relaxed atmosphere. This approach not only makes the leader more approachable but also helps the team stay motivated and focused on their goals.

My real world example is hen we were assigned an almost impossible project with tight deadlines. I looked across the virtual meeting room and could see people were almost paralyzed by the task at hand, or should I say, very doubtful that it could be accomplished.

Making Humour Work for You

Using humour in leadership isn’t about being the office comedian. It’s about creating a positive, comfortable and inclusive atmosphere. Here are some guidelines for using humour effectively:

1. Keep it Positive: Avoid humour that puts others down. Instead, focus on light-hearted jokes and stories that everyone can enjoy. As I like to do, I “sprinkle” it throughout the day, and use to ease tension, or to create a warm, collegial environment. Good leaders ensure that the humour is never at someone’s expense.

2. Be Authentic: Don’t force humour. Let it come naturally and be genuine with it. This means that you don’t tell a joke for the sake of a joke but rather, when the situation needs it, you can choose to 1) laugh at yourself, 2) tell a funny story at the start of a meeting, 3) invite others to do the same, 4) or point out some ironies to lighten the tension. Or there may be another way that is truly, you.

3. Read the Room: And in rare instances, I have had to chat with someone to reflect on the appropriateness of their humour. Good leaders do 2 things: 1) read the room and know when humour is appropriate, and 2) help colleagues learn how to read the room so they can do the same.

4. Encourage Team Humour: Foster an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing a laugh. This can strengthen team bonds and improve morale. This happens if you lead by example and do it yourself. People need a nudge to know that it’s ok to share humour and once you do, then they do, and then it happens naturally. And then it snowballs.

Bottom Line

Incorporating humour into your leadership style can make a significant difference in how your team perceives you and how they perform. It’s about being approachable, fostering a positive environment, and encouraging creativity. By doing so, you can enhance your team’s performance and satisfaction, leading to a more productive and harmonious workplace.

And for the doubters in the room, I wouldn’t say that I am a funny person, telling jokes all day. In fact, that is the last thing I feel comfortable doing.

But the take away here, is NOT about telling jokes, but rather creating light hearted moments throughout the day and week at work. And inviting and openly welcoming, others to do the same. Some days it’s just seeing the humour in something, or telling that funny story about yourself, or when you make an error, finding the humour in it, and letting others know, or creating some “down time” where folks can chill around coffee. And, I have found, when used throughout the day and done “as only you can do”, it really works. And work is stressful enough as it is (and it doesn’t need to be.)

So, you can make a choice as a leader. Stressful, accountable and serious, OR relaxed, accountable, and light hearted.

I think I had more folks at my door, wanting to share news, issues before they became a thing and new ideas, a lot more as a result. (And if you asked my admin staff, they observed that line up often!)

So try it, and over time, you will find YOUR groove. But it’s essential to do it.

What’s Next

Start your journey with SHiNE today and if you need to know where to start, refer to your workbook.

And look for a course / webinar in the Fall that I will be launching on SHiNE. More details to come. And as a complement to the 7 week course, I also will be launching the weekly membership portal SHiNE Together: The Network starting July 29, 2024.

Look for next week’s deeper dive into SHiNE – Standards and Having a Service Mindset, where I’ll look deeper into what that really means in the workplace.

See you then!

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Your Authentic Leadership “SHiNE Now” Moment

SHiNE Your Way to Exceptional Leadership: A Comprehensive Leadership Guide – Six Week Series

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In today’s dynamic and ever-evolving workplace, the demand for a different kind of leadership is high, especially in healthcare, government or not for profit organizations. In my 20+ year career, I have been on a journey to define what kind of leadership has the greatest impact.

And after many attempts, missteps, learning opportunities and “experiments”, I may have figured it out. Well, who really has, BUT, I think I have. I have studied many models, and practiced a ton of them. And then one day, I was asked to put on paper, what my recommendation would be about an ideal model in healthcare, government or not for profit, and I realized it’s this unique blend between authentic, servant, and entrepreneurial leadership called SHiNE. A little more on what that is exactly, is shared later in this post.

The Why

But why is this kind of leadership so important? Consider these thought-provoking statistics:

• Trust and Performance: Leaders who use this kind of style inspire 42% more trust and loyalty from their teams, leading to a 29% improvement in team performance.
• Employee Engagement: Companies with highly engaged employees outperform their competitors by 147% in earnings per share (and in the not for profit world, it just means staff are way more productive, self driven, customer centred and innovative).
• Innovation and Creativity: Teams led by authentic leaders show a 26% increase in innovation and a 22% increase in creativity.

These statistics underline a simple truth: this style of leadership is not just a buzzword; it is a transformative approach that drives tangible results.

Years ago, I realized that even with my title as “leader,” I was just another human, working with other humans, trying to make assigned goals happen. Yes, it’s more than just that, but the point is, I was just a human like my teammates – with fears, concerns, stresses, bills, etc. I just had the privilege of carrying a formal title, with the authority that goes with it

Leaders who incorporate heart and compassion into their leadership style not only create more cohesive teams but also drive higher levels of engagement and innovation. When team members feel valued and understood, they are more likely to contribute their best ideas and go the extra mile. This sense of belonging fosters a collaborative environment where creativity can flourish. Heartfelt leadership transforms workplace culture, leading to better outcomes not just for the team but for the entire organization.

The What

Here’s a introduction into what SHiNE stands for and how it can transform your leadership style:

S – Standards, Values, and Your Brand Service Mindset

Establishing and upholding high standards is crucial. By clearly defining and adhering to your core values, you create a personal brand that exudes reliability and trustworthiness. A service mindset ensures that you prioritize the needs of your team and organization, fostering a culture of support and excellence.

H – Humility, Humour, and Heart

Humility in leadership allows you to stay grounded and approachable. Coupled with a good sense of humor, it makes you relatable and builds strong connections within your team. Leading with heart means showing genuine care and compassion, which inspires loyalty and dedication.

I – Integrity, Trust, and Inspiration

Integrity is the cornerstone of trust. By consistently demonstrating honesty and ethical behavior, you build a foundation of trust that empowers your team. As a leader, your ability to inspire through your actions and words can motivate others to strive for excellence and innovation.

N – Nurture and Navigate

Nurturing partnerships and empowering your staff are key components of effective leadership. Providing direction in a visionary way helps your team navigate challenges and achieve their goals. This also involves handling tough situations with integrity and aiming for win-win solutions, ensuring long-term success.

E – Entrepreneurial Spirit

Embracing an entrepreneurial spirit means being open to new ideas and willing to take calculated risks. This approach encourages creativity and innovation, enabling your team to find unique solutions to problems and seize new opportunities.

The SHiNE framework is a unique blend of authentic, servant, and entrepreneurial leadership, specifically designed to round out existing leadership models. This holistic approach is especially effective in sectors like healthcare, government, and non-profits, where the balance of compassion, integrity, and innovation is crucial for success.

By integrating the SHiNE framework into your leadership style, you can create a work environment that not only achieves organizational goals but also fosters personal growth and fulfillment for your team members. Remember, exceptional leadership is not about having all the answers but about being authentic, supportive, and visionary.

What’s Next

Start your journey with SHiNE today and if you need to know where to start, refer to your workbook.

And look for a course / webinar in the Fall that I will be launching on SHiNE. More details to come. And as a complement to the 7 week course, I also will be launching the weekly membership portal SHiNE Together: The Network starting July 29, 2024.

Look for next week’s introduction into SHiNE – Standards and Service Mindset, where I’ll look deeper into what that really means in the workplace.

See you then!

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Your Authentic Leadership “SHiNE Now” Moment

The Power of Informal Leadership (Part 1)

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In the realm of leadership, we often focus on formal roles and titles. However, some of the most influential leaders don’t hold official positions of power.

These are informal leaders, individuals who aspire, inspire, motivate, and guide others through their behavior and actions rather than their job titles. Practicing authentic leadership can significantly amplify the impact of informal leadership.

In this post, we’ll explore what informal leadership is, its benefits, and how authentic leadership practices can enhance its effectiveness.

What is Informal Leadership?

Informal leadership arises when individuals take on leadership roles through their actions and influence, without being appointed or elected to formal leadership positions. These leaders often emerge naturally within groups or organizations, gaining trust and respect from their peers due to their behavior, skills, and the value they bring to the table. And this is the point and time, when authentic leaders get noticed.

The Benefits of Informal Leadership

1. **Increased Trust and Credibility**: Informal leaders often build stronger relationships with their peers because they lead by example and without the authority of a title. This builds trust and credibility.

2. **Greater Influence**: Because informal leaders are seen as peers rather than superiors, their influence can often be more powerful and persuasive. People are more likely to follow someone they perceive as one of their own.

3. **Enhanced Team Cohesion**: Informal leaders can bridge gaps between team members and foster a more cohesive and collaborative environment. They often act as mediators and advocates within the group.

4. **Adaptability and Flexibility**: Informal leaders are often more adaptable and responsive to change because they are not bound by formal responsibilities and can act more freely.

The Role of Authentic Leadership in Informal Leadership

Authentic leadership is about being true to oneself and leading with honesty, integrity, and transparency. These qualities are crucial for informal leaders who rely on personal influence rather than formal authority. Here’s how practicing authentic leadership can enhance informal leadership:

1. **Building Authentic Relationships**: Authentic leaders prioritize genuine connections. By being transparent and sincere, informal leaders can forge deeper relationships with their peers, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment.

2. **Leading by Example**: Authentic leaders lead by example, demonstrating the values and behaviors they wish to see in others. Informal leaders who practice authenticity set a powerful example for their peers, inspiring them to act with integrity and purpose.

3. **Encouraging Open Communication**: Authentic leaders create an environment where open and honest communication is encouraged. This is vital for informal leaders, who often serve as the voice of their peers, advocating for their needs and concerns.

4. **Fostering Inclusivity**: Authentic leaders are inclusive and value diverse perspectives. Informal leaders who embrace authenticity can help create a more inclusive and equitable environment, where every team member feels valued and heard.

More coming next week.

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Your Authentic Leadership “SHiNE Now” Moment

Introducing the Power of O.N.E – Part 1

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Morning to all,

In leadership and personal development, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of strategies, habits, and actions we’re told to adopt.
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However, the journey to becoming an effective leader or achieving personal growth doesn’t always require grand gestures or sweeping changes. Sometimes, the most profound transformations come from the smallest, most consistent efforts. Introducing the concept of O.N.E: the Power of One Person and One Small but Critical Habit.

What does O.N.E stand for: Observe, Nurture and Excel

Life is busy and adopting or learning a new style of leadership can feel overwhelming. It was for me, years ago.

So when I embarked on this shift in my leadership style, I reminded myself of two things: 1) focus on just one change…just one, and 2) that just little old me had the power of affecting many lives, just by adopting this one step. This belief largely came from being a former community developer, and where there is a strong evidence that one community member can make a significant impact in improving their entire neighbourhood.

So I came up with the concept of O.N.E., which stands for Observe, Nurture, Excel. This approach emphasizes the power of one person making a difference through small, yet critical habits.

Observe – find a way to watch, listen and be curious.

The sentence I often find myself saying is “I wonder why……”. No judgement, just wonder. By observing the needs and dynamics within your organization, your responses, and your colleagues, you can identify opportunities for positive change. This is the WHY something may need to improve, change, continue, refine, etc.

Nurture – be kind and compassionate but focussed on defining a new habit

This is the WHAT. Now that you have observed and listened, and understand why something needs to change, now is time to define what the new habit needs to be.

Excel – this is about practicing the new habit

This is about the HOW. And here you think about practicing the new habit, and knowing how and when and where you will practice it.

The O.N.E. concept underscores the idea that significant leadership impact often starts with one person committed to making meaningful contributions. It’s a reminder that every small step towards authentic leadership can lead to substantial, positive changes within your organization.

More to share about the how you do this, in next week’s post!
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Until then!

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