A few years ago, cartoons and movies came out featuring trucks and other machines that would convert themselves (transform) into massive superpowered robots. Or at least that’s my recollection. I grew up a couple decades prior to these “Transformers”. I grew up with cowboys and Indians. Therefore, I admit I do not know much about these transformers. The word transform means to change. To transform is to make a total change, more than superficial, it is a radical renovation from the inside out. So, how do we apply this to leadership?

Transformational leadership consists of initiating this same type of change. It is setting out to make a conversion from the inside out, a radical and complete conversion. Transformational leadership works toward bringing change not only in the organization itself. Transformational leaders lead with the objective to empower teams, individuals, and the leader himself to do more than improve. The objective is for a radical renovation from the inside out. When a transformation like this takes place in one’s life, it normally spills over into other areas of life. Making a transformation like this at work, will overflow into one’s home life and other areas as well – positive overflow.

Transformational leaders motivate others to do more than they originally intended and more than they thought possible. Transformational leaders help others to set more challenging expectations for themselves and their teams. When encouraged and empowered like this by a transformational leader, people typically achieve higher performance and greater effectiveness. Again, this will overflow from the workplace into other areas of life.

Transformational leaders tend to have more committed and satisfied workers/volunteers. Why? Because transformational leaders empower and encourage. When we empower others, we are encouraging them by saying we believe in you and that you can “do this”, “rise to the challenge”. Empowering another person is not only encouraging them, it is giving them the authority to run ahead and accomplish the task at hand. It also means we are giving the authority to make mistakes without undue punishment or belittlement.

Empowerment is tough for some leaders, but it is necessary for transformational leaders. You cannot be a transformational leader without empowering others. Teach them what is expected, show them what can be done. Empower and encourage them to reach for heights they never dreamed possible. Then watch the transformation take place. But don’t rest on your laurels. Plan and empower your own transformation as well.

George Yates is an Organizational Health Strategist and coach, assisting churches, organizations, and individuals in pursuing God’s purpose for life.