#EveryLittleActionCounts Week 47: Focus on Empowerment, NOT Dependency
In academia, fostering empowerment means equipping students and colleagues with the tools, confidence and opportunities they need to succeed on their own. Empowerment nurtures autonomy, resilience, and leadership, creating a more self-sufficient and innovative academic community.
In contrast, dependency can constrain creativity and growth, hindering the development of individuals and the collective institution. By focusing on empowerment instead, we can cultivate an environment where individuals thrive, make meaningful contributions, and feel valued for their capabilities.
“It’s not about being perfect. It’s not about where you get yourself in the end. There’s power in allowing yourself to be known and heard, in owning your unique story, in using your authentic voice.” — Michelle Obama
Academics can support the focus on empowerment
Encourage students and colleagues to develop problem solving competencies
Guide individuals to find their own solutions instead of providing them with answers.
Provide resources and learning opportunities
Allow individuals to take ownership of projects and make meaningful contributions
Recognize and celebrate autonomy and initiative
Reinforces the value of self-reliance and independence in personal and professional settings
We would be very happy to hear about your strategies for prioritizing empowerment in academia
Anne-Wil Harzing & Christa Sathish