Episode Summary

Leadership isn't about keeping your light to yourself; it's about helping others shine.

In this solo episode, Dr. Jamie Brownlee-Turgeon explores the simple yet powerful quote:

"A candle loses nothing by lighting another."

Using this metaphor as a foundation, she examines why recognition is one of the most overlooked and most impactful leadership practices. Drawing on the research of James Kouzes and Barry Posner in The Leadership Challenge, Dr. JBT discusses the practice of Encouraging the Heart and explains why leaders who intentionally recognize others create more engaged teams, stronger cultures, and higher-performing organizations.

You'll discover the three common reasons leaders fail to recognize others, practical ways to build recognition into your leadership rhythm, and simple actions you can implement immediately to encourage and inspire your team.

Whether you lead a university, a department, a business, or simply influence those around you, this episode is a reminder that recognition costs nothing but can change everything.

In This Episode

• Why leaders often overlook recognition despite valuing their people.
• The "candle mindset" versus a scarcity mindset.
• The leadership practice of Encouraging the Heart from The Leadership Challenge.
• Why appreciation increases engagement, commitment, and performance.
• Three practical leadership habits:
  • High Five Fridays
  • Motivating Mondays
  • Personal Notes that Matter
• How genuine recognition strengthens culture and fuels motivation.

Challenge for the Week

✔ Start a High Five Friday tradition.

✔ Begin your next team meeting with a Motivating Monday message.

✔ Write one handwritten note or thoughtful email recognizing someone's specific contribution.

Remember:

A candle loses nothing by lighting another.

Go light some candles.

Resources Mentioned

Kouzes, J. M., & Posner, B. Z. (2023). The Leadership Challenge: How to Make Extraordinary Things Happen in Organizations (7th ed.). Jossey-Bass.

Connect with Dr. JBT

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