Lead It Like Lasso
Home
About
About Us In The News
Masterclass Book Shelf
Resources
Newsletter Book Resources Blog Podcasts
Thundergong! 2024
Log In
← Back to all posts

Curiosity #9 Never Admire Quietly

Dec 04, 2024
Connect

šŸŽ¤ Quotable quotes: ā€œIf I admire something about someone, I tell them. We humans are so fragile. It's important we give people their flowers while they are still here. Never admire quietly.ā€ – Chimamanda Adichie


šŸ“° Let's start with this week's leadership musings by Marnie Stockman & Nick Coniglio

Never Admire Quietly (Ted Would Approve)

 
Ted Says Rebecca is Strong Confident Powerful

 

If there’s one thing Ted Lasso knows how to do (besides making biscuits), it’s spreading genuine encouragement. Whether it’s complimenting Dani Rojas’s smile or letting Nate know he’s got greatness in him (even before Nate knows it himself), Ted makes it clear: if you see something wonderful in someone, say it.

Now here’s the thing: most of us don’t. We think it (and maybe we’ll smile to ourselves about it), but we keep those words locked up tight like they’re a secret recipe. Why? Maybe we assume they already know. Maybe we’re afraid it’ll come out weird. Or maybe we’re just too busy (spoiler alert: we’re not that busy).

But here’s the truth—those words could be exactly what someone needs to hear. People are fragile, as Adichie reminds us. Life is short, and the difference between a fleeting thought and a spoken word can be monumental. A compliment doesn’t just make someone feel good in the moment—it’s like planting a seed that could grow into a garden of confidence, self-worth, and connection.

Think of it this way: giving someone their flowers now (figuratively, but hey, literal flowers are great too!) isn’t just nice; it’s leadership. Leaders elevate others. They make people feel seen and valued. They shine a light on what’s working, even when the world can feel heavy.

So, in true Lasso fashion, here’s a challenge: this week, don’t let your admiration go unspoken. Tell your team member you’re amazed by how they handled that tough situation. Text your friend about how their kindness inspires you. Drop a note to your old mentor and tell them the impact they had on your life.

And if you’re worried about sounding awkward? Just remember: awkward sincerity is 100% better than polished indifference. (Plus, Ted would totally high-five you for trying.)

šŸŽÆ Challenge: Let’s take this from theory to action. Today, pick one person you admire (professionally, personally, or even casually) and let them know. A compliment, a thank-you, or a quick note will do the trick. You’ve got this!


More leadership musings


As you step forward this week, remember: impactful leadership is rooted in recognizing and uplifting others. Admiration, when expressed, has the power to transform relationships and inspire growth.

šŸŖ Biscuits with the Boss: If you could give a heartfelt thank-you to one person who has influenced your life—past or present—who would it be, and what would you say?

Reflecting on those who’ve shaped us helps us see the power of recognition. Sharing this question with your team or loved ones could spark meaningful conversations (and maybe even some happy tears).

 


šŸ…Whistle. Whistle. Roy Kent rarely has an issue speaking his mind - so let's think about he might approach it...

Don’t wait, just say it. People deserve to hear they’re bloody brilliant while they’re still around to hear it.


šŸ“šBeard’s collection: Recommended books and articles

šŸ“– Stone, Douglas, and Heen, Sheila. Thanks for the Feedback: The Science and Art of Receiving Feedback. Penguin Books, 2015.

While focused on receiving feedback, this book also sheds light on the importance of giving thoughtful, affirming feedback that uplifts and motivates. Stone and Heen offer a practical guide to expressing admiration in ways that resonate and stick.

šŸ“– Stone Zander, Rosamund, and Zander, Benjamin. The Art of Possibility: Transforming Professional and Personal Life. Penguin Books, 2002.

Stone Zander and Zander look to reframe their perspectives and find possibilities in every situation. One of its standout concepts, ā€œGiving an A,ā€ is all about seeing and acknowledging the best in others, making it a perfect fit for the topic of admiration and recognition.

šŸ“– Lencioni, Patrick. The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable. Jossey-Bass, 2002.

Lencioni highlights how trust and recognition build the foundation of great teams. His lessons on fostering vulnerability and appreciation can inspire leaders to express admiration in a way that strengthens relationships and improves team dynamics.


šŸŒŽ This week in Here - There - Every F’ing where 

As we come off of Thanksgiving, we wanted to take a minute to thank everyone that has gotten in touch with us on social, via email and of course reviewing our content on platforms like Amazon and Goodreads.  We are truly humbled and feel fortunate to have met so many new people during this endeavor.

Barbecue Sauce!

Marnie and Nick


šŸ“¦ Nate’s suggestion box: We love hearing your ideas! Got a thought about leadership or holiday gift-giving? Reply to this email and let us know. Your suggestion might just make it into a future newsletter.

 

šŸŽ Bring a Friend to the Weekly Curiosities!

Forward this email to a friend who loves Ted Lasso, leadership, or both! (That would be a gift to us :) ) Let’s grow our Diamond Dogs community and keep spreading the Lasso Way.


Was this email forwarded to you? Subscribe for free, and check out our full archive of newletters at leaditlikelasso.com

Note: If you purchase through the links above, we may earn an affiliate commission. There is no additional cost to you, but it helps us keep this newsletter free. We appreciate your support!

 
 
 

Responses

Join the conversation
t("newsletters.loading")
Loading...
Curiosity #36 - Lead from where you are
šŸŽ¤ Quotable Quote ā€œA leader is best when people barely know he exists… When his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves.ā€ā€” Lao Tzu This week on Leadership Rules, we sat down with educator-turned-edtech leader Scott Nunes, whose approach to leadership blends humility, heart, and a whole lot of hands-on wisdom—from the classroom to the C-suite. Scott challenges the t...
Curiosity #35 - You must pass the Laugh Test
šŸŽ¤Ā Quotable quotes: Jamie: ā€œCoach, I’m me. Why would I want to be anyone else?ā€Ted: ā€œI’m not sure you realize how psychologically healthy that actually is.ā€ (Because this is brilliant comedy writing right here :) ) The Laugh Test (a.k.a. The Interview Question That Actually Matters) We’re big fans of servant leadership.We’re even bigger fans of servant leadership that feels… human. That’s why ...
Curiosity #34 - Be the CPR (Calmest person in the room)
šŸŽ¤ Quotable Quote ā€œThe biggest problem with communication is the illusion that it has taken place.ā€ā€” George Bernard Shaw (via Kellie Ady) We know, it stings.Because let’s be honest—we’ve all said ā€œas I mentioned earlierā€ and assumed that counted as alignment.Kellie reminds us that real communication isn’t what you say—it’s what others actually absorb.So say it again. Say it better. Say it wh...

Subscribe to Weekly Curiosities Newsletter

Footer Logo
About In The News Masterclass Book Shelf Newsletter Book Resources Blog Podcasts Thundergong! 2024 Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions
© 2025 EBNix, LLC

Join Our Free Trial

Get started today before this once in a lifetime opportunity expires.