Walking the talk

Why should others implement the required changes, if the environmental leadership does not observe the required behavior? There is nothing more powerful than observing leaders making a sincere effort to do the actions and behavior they request from others. When employees, colleagues and other stakeholders see that the leadership is walking the talk, their message is taken much more seriously. Environmental leaders - who understand that what really matters is what they do, not what they say - will change both on the personal and the professional level.

The psychology of personal and professional change works in two ways: it strengthens your own leadership abilities and it affects your audience. Your audience appreciates that you personally know what it means to make an effort to change. People trust you more as you have undergone the often painful experience of change. They like to follow a leader who took the courage to overcome different obstacles towards change.

At the same time it strengthens your leadership abilities: when you ‘live’ the change, it is easier to talk about it in simple terms. Your speeches will be more authentic. It enables you to listen better to those you want to change, as you can connect better with their concerns and needs. It contributes to your reputation, integrity and credibility, especially if you invite others to provide feedback where you can improve your actions and behavior.