Who Believes in You?
“I’m a success today because I had a friend who believed in me and I didn’t have the
heart to let him down.” – Abraham Lincoln
Today, during a podcast interview, I found myself quoting a close friend who left us too
soon—Tim Kunsman. Tim was someone who saw my flaws, my failures, and still chose
to believe in me, even when I couldn’t believe in myself.
He didn’t need perfection from me. He just believed I would keep going – keep getting
better. And because of that quiet confidence, I stood taller, worked harder, and became
better.
After decades leading teams in demanding environments, I’ve learned this: believing in
someone isn’t a soft skill. It’s one of the most powerful tools a leader or co-worker can
offer.
In today’s workplace, with long hours, tight schedules, and often unpredictable
outcomes, belief in each other fuels resilience. When you show your team you believe
in their potential—not just their productivity—you energize them. That belief can spark
creativity, drive, and commitment.
Who is your Tim Kunsman? We all remember the ones who believed in us—a
leader/mentor, co-worker, parent, coach, or friend. And we have the chance every day
to be that person for someone else.
So, ask yourself:
*Who believes in you when the job feels too big?
*Who are you believing in right now?
*Whose growth are you helping shape just by standing behind them?
In your work, in your community, and in your family—be one who sees potential and
speaks it out loud. When you believe in someone, they’ll often rise—not out of
obligation, but because they don’t want to let you down.
That’s how teams become successful, and work becomes meaningful.
Believe in others. Let others believe in you. Make an impact.
— Jeff
