See Potential Before Others Do

by Jon Close

Apr 20, 2026

One of the greatest responsibilities of a leader is seeing what others cannot yet see in themselves.

Many people underestimate their own leadership ability. They focus on their limitations rather than their potential. A leader’s role is to help people recognize the gifts, strengths, and capabilities that may still be hidden.

John C. Maxwell often reminds us that people tend to become what the most important people in their lives believe they can become.

When leaders consistently point out strengths, potential, and opportunities for growth, confidence begins to rise.

Great leadership does not merely evaluate people. It elevates people.

This Week's Practice

Identify one team member who shows leadership potential.

Take five minutes this week to:

Tell them a specific strength you see in them
Encourage them regarding their leadership potential
Give them a small, visible leadership responsibility (leading a meeting, owning a step in a project, or mentoring a peer.

Many leadership journeys begin with one leader who believed first.

DISC Insight - Seeing Potential in Each Style.

D - Dominance

You quickly see capabilities and results potential. Take time to recognize character and relational leadership strengths-not just performance.

I - Influence

You naturally encourage people. Strengthen your impact by being specific about the leadership qualities you see.

S - Support

You are often excellent at quietly recognizing people's value. Don't keep it to yourself. Your encouragement can unlock confidence.

C- Cautious (Precision/Analysis/Risk)

You notice confidence and detailed strengths. Be intentional about affirming progress, not only pointing out improvements needed.

Bottom Line:

Leadership multiplies when you help people see who they can become-not just who they are today.

Listen Past the Task

Most leaders listen to respond. Strong leaders listen to understand. When leaders rush to solutions, they often miss the real issue. Listening beyond the task—into concerns, assumptions, and context—builds trust and improves execution. As author, speaker Jon Gordon reminds us, connection fuels performance. People don’t just want answers—they want to know they’ve been heard. Listening is not p...

Navigate Conflict Productively

Conflict is not the problem—avoidance is. Healthy teams experience tension. Purposeful leaders don’t eliminate conflict; they channel it toward better thinking and stronger decisions. As Patrick Lencioni teaches, productive conflict is a hallmark of trust. When leaders address issues early and directly, teams stay aligned and engaged. This Week's Practice In your next disagreement: Address ...

Great Leaders Develop Independent Thinkers

The ultimate goal of leadership is not dependence. It is independence. When leaders develop capable, confident individuals who can think, decide, and act responsibly, the organization becomes stronger. Ken Blanchard’s situational leadership model ultimately leads to people who can lead themselves. This is the mark of effective leadership development. This Week’s Practice Encourage independent ...