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Strengths-Based Expectations. Discover what matters most before you set expectations for others

HOW TO USE THIS MODULE
This module can be used in two ways.

  • If you are preparing for a workshop or coaching session
    Complete the exercises below before we meet and bring your completed What Matters Most summary with you.

  • If you are doing the online starter series
    Work through each step, then apply what you’ve learned with your team over the coming week.

This module is about getting clearer on what matters to you, how that shapes your expectations, and how to put that into words.

Limited for time?
If you only do one thing this, make it Step 2: Complete Aligned Decisions

Objectives

At the end of this module you will have identified

  • Identified your purpose

  • Identified your core values

  • Clarified your vision

  • Completed Aligned Decisions

  • Created your personalised What Matters Most summary

  • Understood how your CliftonStrengths help turn decisions into action

Duration 30-45 mins

Your Output

By the end of this module you will have:

  • Completed Aligned Decisions

  • Created your personalised What Matters Most summary

  • Identified the strengths that will help you bring it to life

Step One Why purpose, values and vision matter

Every expectation you set reflects three things.

Purpose is the contribution you want to make.

Values guide how you choose to work and make decisions.

Vision is the future you are working towards.

Most organisations have purpose, values and vision statements.

Few people use them to make everyday decisions.

When they become personal rather than corporate, they become practical. They help explain what matters, guide difficult decisions and create consistency in how you lead.

Optional Watch Simon Sinek’s TED Talk Start With Why provides a helpful introduction to why purpose sits at the centre of effective leadership.

Step Two Complete Aligned Decisions

Download Aligned Decisions and complete each step in order.

The workbook will guide you through:

  • Selecting your top 10 purpose statements

  • Selecting your top 10 values

  • Selecting your top 10 vision statements

  • Ranking each from most to least important

  • Creating your personalised What Matters Most summary

Download Aligned Decisions Tool

Download

Step Three Understand your strengths

Purpose, values and vision help you make better decisions. Your CliftonStrengths help you turn those decisions into action. Review your CliftonStrengths Top 5 Report.

As you read through your strengths, ask yourself:

  • Which strengths naturally support my purpose?

  • Which strengths help me live my values?

  • Which strengths will help me achieve my vision?

To access your CliftonStrengths report:

  1. Log in to https://login.gallup.com using your e-mail address and password

  2. At the top left hand side click on Menu and select CliftonStrengths

  3. On the secondary menu beside CliftonStrengths heading click on Reports

  4. Click on the CliftonStrengths Top 5 Report

  5. A PDF will load.  Print this

  6. As you read:

    • Highlight what resonates

    • Cross out what doesn’t

    • Circle key words that describe you

Put this into practice

Look at your completed What Matters Most summary and ask yourself:

  • What expectations does this create for how I lead?

  • What would my team experience when I’m leading at my best?

  • Where am I unclear or inconsistent?

Write down three expectations you want your team to experience more consistently over the next week.

Next: Everyday Feedback

Further reading