Touchy Feely?

Why must we continue using the words "touchy feely" to dismiss the very thing that can sustain desired results on a team?  These words are still used to describe leadership and team development efforts despite the findings that high emotional intelligence correlates to bigger salaries, innovation and sustainable business results. Strong working relationships actually reduce stress and improve productivity so why do we minimize the importance of human connection at work?

Is because we:

• Ignore or fear our own emotions?
• Enjoy zingers (humor at the expense of others)?
• Have experienced ineffective or poorly run team building events?
• Find it is easier to focus on tasks than people?
• Need a lot of personal space?
• Believe there is no place for emotions at work?
• Experience discomfort or embarrassment around people?
• Fear the reactions of others?
• Believe vulnerability is a weakness?

Make the time to explore your own thinking about human connection in the workplace and notice what beliefs, assumptions, stories or mindsets help or hinder your achievement. 

Leadership Effectiveness = Business Success

Leadership effectiveness is directly correlated to business success. Want to accelerate your impact? According to research by The Leadership Circle focus on the top three correlations to leadership effectiveness: 

1. Purposeful & Visionary- Live and work with a deep sense of meaning and stay focused on envisioned results even in the face of obstacles. 
2. Fostering Team Play- Create a positive climate that supports people doing their best.
3. Mentoring and Developing- Support the learning and career goals of your direct reports.

And, minimize the top three negative correlations by being less passive, distant or critical. Strive to:

• Advocate your ideas, be more decisive and address conflict gracefully
• Connect and truly care about your peers, colleagues and team members  
• Shift focus from "what is wrong?" to "what is going on?"