5 Practical Ways to Inspire Your Team and Elevate Their Potential

When we say, “That’s inspirational,” what do we really mean?

Think about someone who has inspired you—what is it about them that moves you?

Maybe it’s their resilience, their passion, their ability to see the good in tough situations. Perhaps they have a contagious energy or a clear vision that draws people in.

Words like motivated, courageous, uplifting, and visionary might come to mind.

Just like a waterfall, motivational people in our lives flow with energy, constantly moving forward and overcoming obstacles. (Waterfalls are my favorite so of course I have to connect these ideas to one of my favorites!) Enjoy the picture!

Their perseverance and determination create ripples of inspiration, reminding us that growth and success often come from consistent and persistent actions.

Oftentimes, the people we categorize as inspirational—whether we realize it or not—are those who don’t just do what is normally expected in a situation.

They go above and beyond or look at things differently than what we typically see. They challenge the status quo, think outside the box, or bring a level of passion and commitment that stands out.

Now, think about your own team—whether it’s a business team, your friend group, a community organization, your church, or even a class. How can you be the kind of person who sparks inspiration in them?

Here are five practical and implementable ways to do just that:

1. Lead with Authenticity

People are inspired by leaders who are real. Share your challenges, your failures, and your journey. When people see that you’re human—just like them—it builds trust and encourages them to take bold action without fear of failure. Authenticity creates connection, and connection fuels inspiration.

Try this: Share a personal story of overcoming an obstacle in a team meeting or casual conversation. It will show others they’re not alone in their struggles.

2. Cast a Vision That’s Bigger Than the Moment

Inspiration thrives on purpose. If people don’t know why they’re doing something, it’s hard to stay motivated. Whether you’re leading a business team, a community group, or a classroom, help people see the bigger picture. Show them how their work or contributions matter in the grand scheme of things.

Try this: The next time you assign a task or ask for help, explain why it matters in the bigger picture. People will be more engaged when they understand their impact.

3. Recognize and Celebrate Growth

One of the fastest ways to inspire someone is to acknowledge their progress. People crave recognition—not just for big wins but for effort, improvement, and persistence. When you celebrate growth, you encourage more of it.

Try this: Make a habit of publicly recognizing one person each week for something they’ve done well, no matter how small. A simple, “I see you putting in the work, and it’s paying off,” can ignite motivation.

4. Be the Energy You Want to See

Energy is contagious. If you bring enthusiasm, positivity, and a solutions-focused mindset, your team will pick up on that. On the other hand, if you show up disengaged and uninspired, that energy will spread too. Inspiration starts with you.

Try this: At your next team gathering, bring a higher level of energy than usual—be fully present, listen actively, and engage with excitement. Watch how it shifts the mood in the room.

5. Empower People to Lead

People are inspired when they feel trusted and capable. If you want to create an inspired team, don’t just lead—help others step into leadership, too. Give people ownership over tasks, decisions, and initiatives. When people feel empowered, they rise to the occasion.

Try this: Identify one person in your group who has potential but hasn’t stepped up yet. Give them a responsibility and support them as they grow into it.

Final Thought

Inspiration isn’t just about words—it’s about actions. When you lead with authenticity, vision, recognition, energy, and empowerment, you don’t just inspire for a moment; you create a culture of lasting motivation and growth.

Which of these will you start implementing today? 🚀