Empowerment - An Inside Job Ms. Geri Pratt, DITSO-GAP The message from the DISA Service Quality Survey (conducted during Nov-Dec 91) was clear about the need to increase meaningful employee involvement in decisions that affect them. Great idea, admirable goal, but where do we begin? The very term "empowerment" often creates questions, so let's begin with some definitions. Webster defines empowerment as "to give official authority or legal power to." An article in the winter 1993 issue of Armed Forces Comptroller magazine ('Discovering the Power of Empowerment") defines empowerment as "giving the people who work with the processes on a day-today basis an active voice in how to make them better." The article highlights the support network necessary to allow an empowered organization to function. The support network consists of: strategy (management support and commitment in both word and in deed); tactics (specific tools, such as the Problem Solving Process, the Quality Improvement Process, Statistical Process Control) and structure (teams). The most significant benefit that will be realized as a result of the change is synergy in the organization, which leads to accomplishments of the group that are greater than the sum total of the individual contributions of the members. The article sites fear by middle-managers as one of the greatest obstacles in empowering an organization, and recommends education as the vehicle to overcome that fear. Helping the middle-managers understand that their authority is not relinquished will help in overcoming that obstacle to the success of empowerment. The article closes with six recommendations for managers to aid them in utilizing empowerment to its utmost potential. Good article; education and training are indeed important. But, as you may have noticed, the bulk of the responsibility for empowering an organization lies with management. We have all experienced supervisors and managers whose support of high ideals and people-oriented programs begins and ends with so many Promises. DISA and DITSO have processes in place and programs underway to demonstrate that their management's support is more than lip service. We also have observed (if not been a part of!) unprecedented changes taking place organizationally and throughout DoD; decisions being made by a small but powerful group of individuals at the very top. What about empowerment in these circumstances? Let me attempt to bring it to a personal level for both employees and mid-level managers. Take a few moments and think about what gives you a feeling of empowerment. This will probably be different for each of us; there is no "right answer." I interpret "empowerment" as a sense of being "in control." I feel "empowered" when I feel as though I am able to participate in and have some control over those decisions affecting me. If you've noticed, I use the work "feel" numerous times. In addressing "empowerment." I find the recognition and acceptance of "feelings" to be an important factor. Acknowledgment of our feelings is a healthy and positive way of affirming ourselves; of enhancing our self-respect and enabling US to treat ourselves better. once you determine what makes you feel "empowered," take another moment and see how much control you have over those things. We're all familiar with the quotation "God grant me the patience to accept the things I can't change; the strength to change the things I can; and thewisdom to know the difference" There aren't any guarantees that things will turn out the way we plan or hope for. The secret is how we manage the unexpected, i.e., maintain an healthy perspective and self-control. So, keeping the wisdom of the quotation in mind, realize that by taking control of as many facets of our lives (our body/health, attitude, and aspects of our personal lives) as we possibly can, we'll be in a much better position to deal with the things that are (or at least appear to be) out of our control. I'd like to share with you some tools that I've come to rely upon to get me through a day at a time. Emphasize the positive - our outlook on life in general has everything to do with how we perceive events that take place within our lives. Remember that 'success" is how you define it, and "happiness" is where you find it. Moderation - Life is largely a balancing act. Practice moderation in how long and intensely to tax your mental capacities (as in work), in consumption (food, alcohol), in relaxing/leisure activities, and make sure you get adequate rest Establishing boundaries for yourself will help maintain the balance we all need. Perspective - Remember that things we perceive as negative happening to or within our organizations must not be taken personally Learn how to separate who you are from the roles you play at work, at home, or in the community You are not your job open your mind to new possibilities-Life as we have known it may be history That may seem threatening, in as much as we are forced to explore regions far beyond our comfort zones, but when you consider that the possibility of creating an environment, a career, a life, far better than we could have imagined--it is an exciting prospect Dare to live your dreamt Welcome change - The changes taking place around us have been compared to a fast moving train. It is coming, and it is our choice whether we want to stand back and try to ignore it, hop on it, or lie down in front of it. Decide to make the changes work to your benefit. Remember, YOU have the power to do that. Encourage others - by encouraging others, you'll create an atmosphere of respect, for them and yourself. When we treat others the way we would want to be treated, everyone comes away feeling better about everything. don't hesitate to compliment a job well done; give feedback, not criticism. Take Responsibility - by taking responsibility for youractions, you'll find your life less stressful because you'll spend much less time and energy making excuses for not having accomplished the things that are most important to you'll learn to manage time effectively, and take responsibility for the choices you make in terms of how you treat yourself (exercise, food, and rest). Be especially kind to your body during stressful times, and be sure not to take on responsibility to others that need to be responsible for themselves. Not coincidentally, these tools represent "EMPOWER"! Now you see why I believe it is as much an "inside job" as it is a management responsibility, During this time of unprecedented change throughout the federal government, particularly in DoD, many managers would like to be "empowered,,, as well! With a passion and commitment to work as a team, we can make a difference Above all, it is essential that we remember to have fun. Don't take yourself, those around you, or a temporary situation too seriously. Do life, don't let life do you.