As a leader, I’ve always valued the hard work my team puts in—it’s the foundation of our company’s success, and it matters to me more than I can express. But there was a time when I didn’t fully grasp what one employee needed from me. Every day, she’d stop by my desk, diligently checking in with a detailed rundown of everything she’d been working on. At first, I felt overwhelmed. The updates seemed unnecessary, and I found myself wanting to escape the barrage of specifics. I couldn’t understand why she kept coming to me with it all.

Then it clicked. She wasn’t just sharing updates—she was seeking something deeper. She needed affirmation, a sign that her work was noticed and valued. Once I realized that, I flipped the script. Instead of waiting for her to come to me, I started stopping by her office every day to check in on what she’d been working on. I’d listen, nod, and let her know, “Your work means a lot to me and to this company.”

The shift was remarkable. She lit up, feeling validated and appreciated, and I could see the weight lift off her shoulders. For me, it was reassuring to know she understood how much her contributions mattered. What started as a moment of frustration turned into a daily practice of connection—and we both became happier and more productive because of it. It’s a small gesture, but it taught me a big truth: sometimes, the most powerful way to lead is simply to affirm. - **Mike Wirth (**CEO of Chevron)