Ultimately, Teachers Want to be Multipliers!

(Plus Parents, Grandparents, or Managers)

I’ve seen it happen over and over again where people allow their egos to get in the way of keeping a growth mindset. In our obsession with perfectionism and our fear of being perceived unknowledgeable or being judged by others in not catching mistakes or errors, so often as leaders, we obsessively compulsively need to point out the negative. Oh, sure we say, we have the best intentions, and want to help people grow, but hmmm what about deferring to seeing and praising what is right?

As teachers, we were encouraged to give two stars and a wish as timely feedback. I think that it is a great rule of thumb for all areas of life. Adopting this strategy, we are supporting and encouraging those in our lives while still offering positive constructive feedback or suggestions. Two stars and a wish is an easy metaphor to incorporate into our daily leadership practice.

Back in April, I wrote a blog about a great book, Multipliers by Liz Wiseman. I was surprised that after doing the assessment I was categorized as an accidental diminisher. What is the old saying, “The road to hell is paved with good intentions?” I’d say that my ego has gotten in the way of being a multiplier. In addition to being positive in our feedback, maybe we need to hold ourselves accountable and ask, “Is my ego and need to be right, correct, or perfect taking over at this moment?” and “What can I learn from the person I am leading or this situation?” The article below offers some great strategies. This author uses the metaphor of the sandwich instead of two wishes and a star (both holding the same intent – two positives and a point of growth).

Let’s all keep our egos in check and maintain our growth mindsets.

“It is unwise to be too sure of one’s own wisdom. It is healthy to be reminded that the strongest might weaken and the wisest might err.”
– Mahatma Gandhi