The Impact of Leaders with Hope for the Future

Cathie Leimbach • June 12, 2023

Only 1 in 10 leaders communicate hope for the future

In the fast-paced and ever-changing world of work, leaders who inspire hope in their employees possess a remarkable ability to drive engagement and foster success. Gallup, renowned for its extensive research on workplace dynamics, highlights the profound impact of hopeful leaders on organizational outcomes.

A hopeful leader embodies optimism, instilling confidence, and trust within their teams. Their positive outlook and belief in a better future empower employees, creating a shared vision and sense of purpose. Gallup's studies consistently reveal that employees who work under hopeful leaders exhibit higher levels of engagement, productivity, and job satisfaction.

Hopeful leaders foster a supportive work environment where employees feel valued, challenged, and motivated. By communicating openly, listening attentively, and providing constructive feedback, they cultivate a culture of growth and development. Gallup research also highlights the critical role of hope in fostering resilience during challenging times, enabling employees to overcome obstacles and persevere.

In conclusion, leaders who embody hope have a profound impact on employee engagement, well-being, and performance. By fostering a positive workplace culture and inspiring their teams to believe in a brighter future, these leaders create a path towards success, driving organizational growth and transformation.

Wrapping Up Your Year – Celebrate Your Wins

By Cathie Leimbach • December 16, 2025
As you’re wrapping presents this season, it’s also a great time to wrap up your year with intention. The end of the year offers a natural pause—a chance to reflect, appreciate, and celebrate the people who made a difference along the way. At work, we often move from one deadline to the next without stopping to say thank you. Take a moment to recognize your teammates. Maybe it’s the coworker who always had your back, or the leader who helped you stretch and grow. A sincere “thank you” or a short handwritten note can go a long way. It doesn’t need to be elaborate—just genuine. The same holds true in your personal life. When was the last time you told a friend or family member how much they mean to you? Between holiday plans and to-do lists, it’s easy to forget that our presence often matters more than any present. Every year brings both highs and lows. As this one comes to a close, choose to focus on what went right. Celebrate the small wins and acknowledge the people who supported you through the challenging moments. So, while you’re taping up gift boxes, take a little time to wrap up your year with gratitude. Send the text. Write the card. Let people know they’re valued. After all, the most meaningful gift you can give is helping someone feel truly appreciated. Want more simple, meaningful ways to express appreciation—without overspending?  👉 View Sharing Joy at Work Without Breaking the Bank for practical ideas you can use right away.

Connectional Intelligence: The Power Skill Behind Big Results

By Cathie Leimbach • December 9, 2025
In Erica Dhawan’s book, Get Big Things Done, she defines Connectional Intelligence as the ability to combine knowledge, networks, and relationships to drive meaningful results. In today’s busy workplace, it’s not just what you know—it’s how well you connect that turns good ideas into big outcomes. Strong Connectional Intelligence within a team strengthens workplace morale and productivity by impacting four key attributes of high-performance cultures: Value Visibly – People perform better when they know their contributions matter. Leaders who highlight strengths, acknowledge effort, and celebrate progress create a culture where great work becomes contagious. Communicate Carefully – In an age of nonstop messages, clarity is a competitive advantage. Thoughtful communication reduces confusion, prevents conflict, and ensures that everyone moves forward with shared understanding. Collaborate Confidently – Connectional Intelligence flourishes when people feel empowered to contribute. Confident collaboration means inviting diverse perspectives, leveraging individual superpowers, and creating space for smart problem-solving. Trust Totally – Trust is the anchor of all high-performing teams. When leaders show reliability, transparency, and empathy, people take risks, share ideas, and stay aligned toward common goals. Connectional Intelligence helps teams innovate faster, break down silos, and accomplish what truly matters. Want to learn more? Visit Erica Dhawan’s website to explore her full body of work and deepen your understanding of Connectional Intelligence.