Creating Psychological Safety at Work, the Ted Lasso Way

When a company promotes an environment of psychological safety, employees feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and taking chances. They know their ideas will be heard and valued, encouraging them to take on more responsibility and ownership in their work.

To find a leader who exemplifies these qualities, one need not look further than Ted Lasso. The beloved protagonist of the popular show on Apple TV embodies the traits of an exceptional leader through his authentic and empathetic approach to leadership. He prioritizes the needs of his team, placing their well-being and growth above his own. His undying optimism and humility foster a supportive and nurturing environment where he serves as a mentor, guide, and advocate. Ted Lasso listens to his team members and genuinely cares about their lives and concerns. He empowers them to reach their full potential by investing in their development.

At the heart of Ted's leadership style is empowerment. He has confidence in his team's capabilities and encourages them to take ownership of their decisions and actions. Rather than being a micromanager, he offers guidance and allows his team to learn from their own experiences, even if it means making mistakes. This approach creates an environment of continuous learning and development where team members feel empowered to utilize their individual strengths. Additionally, Ted values collaboration and inclusivity within his leadership style, valuing each team member's unique perspectives and ideas.

Through his actions and leadership style, Ted Lasso embodies the concept of empowering those around him. He fosters an environment where team members are comfortable taking risks and embracing their roles. This allows their individual strengths to flourish, resulting in a stronger team dynamic and, ultimately, greater success. By employing these strategies, Ted Lasso turns a struggling soccer team into a tight-knit family confident in their abilities and striving for greatness.

I highly recommend you tune in to the show, which ended in May 2023. It offers valuable lessons and insights for those seeking to improve their leadership abilities, which can benefit anyone striving to become a better leader.

Much like Ted Lasso depends on the advice and support of his inner circle, empowerment in your company should not be a one-person journey; it requires a team effort. It is important to consistently promote open communication and teamwork.

By creating a welcoming and open space for employees to freely express their ideas, voice their opinions, ask questions, and share valuable insights without fear of judgment or criticism, we foster a collaborative and innovative atmosphere where diverse perspectives are valued and encouraged.