Considering all the uncertainties and ambiguities surrounding leaders every day, I believe that Steven Covey’s concept of the ‘circle of influence’ has become more vital than ever. We have a limited amount of energy to use at any given time. The key is what we use it for and what we focus on. 

How to increase your own and your team’s performance and spirit

People are concerned about many things and tend to spend a lot of time and energy on them. When our attention is drawn to the ‘circle of concern’, where we have no chance to impact, we feel powerless or even anxious. How about focusing instead on those things which we can influence? The more we concentrate on the area where we can make a difference, the more we feel empowered and in the driver’s seat. 

Ask yourself as a leader:

• What is my usual mindset?
• In what circle do I spend most of my time?

How to apply this approach when working with your team

The mindset we choose is down to each of us. When working with teams, you can use this model by taking the following steps:

• Ask for the current problems, concerns or challenges
• Then refer to the model and ask them to place their inputs on the chart above. How many concerns are in the outer circle, where you cannot affect things? How many aspects are placed in the inner circle?
• Raise awareness about what happens when you stay in the outer zone. Most probably, it will be a waste of time.
• Then make your team focus on the inner circle where your immediate impact is. Start working together on these topics. Keep asking, ‘and what can we do about that?’

This approach might make a huge difference not only regarding your problem-solving process, but also your team spirit.

Your inner game is just as important as the right skills and knowledge. 

In our one on one coaching sessions you can find out more about any toxic mindsets or behaviours and turn them into powerful and rewarding personal strategies.