A few years ago, I managed a project in which one team member, usually reliable, started falling behind. Deadlines were missed, and the ripple effects affected the rest of the team. My initial instinct was to focus on the metrics and hold them accountable. But instead, I decided to have a one-on-one conversation.
I simply asked, “How are you doing?”
They were experiencing personal challenges that made it hard to focus. Instead of pressuring them further, I offered support—adjusted deadlines, temporarily reduced their workload, and connected them with resources. What followed surprised me: not only did they bounce back, but their productivity exceeded prior levels. The team also noticed my support and felt more motivated and connected.
This experience taught me an invaluable lesson: balancing humanity with performance is not a weakness—it’s a strength.
How Leaders Can Balance Humanity and Performance:
- Start with Empathy: A simple check-in question like, “How are you doing?” can make a difference. Recognizing the human side of team members fosters trust and openness.
- Create a Safe Space: Encourage team members to share challenges without fear of judgment. A supportive environment enables resilience and innovation.
- Align Support with Goals: Offering help doesn’t mean compromising results. It means finding solutions that allow individuals and teams to thrive together.
High-performing teams are built on more than goals and KPIs. They thrive in environments where leaders balance empathy with expectations. When you care for the people, the results often take care of themselves.
Key Takeaway: Leaders who balance humanity and performance create teams that achieve goals and grow stronger.
How have you balanced humanity and performance in your leadership journey? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your story!