"Playing it safe is just about the most dangerous thing a woman like you could do," says Nicolas Cage to Cher in Moonstruck, a favorite film of mine. This epic line in the film gets to me because he recognizes the gravity of unrealized potential. Many have commented on the human tendency to shy away from our power for fear of it. We impose limitations to secure our boundaries, and we impose boundaries on others, as well. When we interview employees, we come prepared with a desired set of characteristics, a set of skills, and a set of objectives that we believe hold the formula to a job well done. We mold ourselves and others into confines in efforts to differentiate skill sets, delineate responsibilities, and deliver results. Therein lies this danger of which Nicolas Cage speaks. Plainly stated: we don't know what we don't know. We don't know what others can accomplish when they can play upon their unique talents, when they know no limits, when they can fuse passion with purpose. What's more, empowering others permeates the confines of our offices and of our professional network. We as leaders must also encourage the pursuance of meaning in life outside work to truly embrace authenticity, activate trust, and inspire the journey to fulfilling their personal legends. 

And so, how do we create a culture like this? Here are the top three ways that I have helped my employees (and myself!) to embrace continued growth and confidence in our careers and in our lives: 

1.   Fostering a culture of authenticity that boosts self-awareness and promotes self-actualization. I have seen such strength in bringing out the inner superhero in individuals. Making each person feel valued and capable of performing beyond their job title builds an end product that is much greater than the sum of its parts. This only happens when we let go of what is in scope for each of us and allow teams to adapt their roles to the changing dynamic.

2.   Cultivating unique sets of skills and new approaches to old practices. Trusting in new methodologies can be tough to do when you have years of wisdom on your side. Yet by taking a hands-off approach to see what people can create with their own wisdom and insights, I have seen some brilliant ideas that could not have been made possible without my relinquishing control and trusting in the process. 

3.   Supporting continuous growth and development so that employees feel fulfilled in the daily flow of things. As it has been said, "Win over people's minds and you can have them work for you, but win their hearts and you will have them work with you." The art of listening is the key to producing great work that is backed by wisdom and powered by heart. This starts with learning what makes others tick and finding ways either a) to have them integrate that into their work life or b) ensuring that they have a healthy space to cultivate their passions outside of work hours. It is sustained by frequent check-ins to make sure they know that you care, and that what is important to them is important to you. 

Empower your teams to grow their productive passions, and you will uncover things you never knew you needed. When we do not create boundaries, we are limitless. Todd Henry, renowned author, speaker, and founder, has made some profound statements on this topic. Among them is a mantra based on this story: In a meeting, someone asked Todd and a team if they could identify the most valuable piece of land on Earth. Puzzled, the team shouted out responses like, "Manhattan" and "oil rigs." Much to their surprise, the facilitator explained that the graveyard was the most valuable place, where all unrealized potential and ideas sat within the confines of their space, never to be shared with the world. Henry coins this motto of "Die empty" to remind himself to bring to life all that belongs to the world. And so, my challenge to you, one month into New Year's resolutions and partially through Q1, is to step outside your comfort zone, bring to life all that you are keeping from the world, and bring to life the full potential of your team.

Clara Conti is a serial entrepreneur, senior executive, and change agent. Connect with her on LinkedIn or Twitter (@ClaraConti).

The postings on this site are my own and do not necessarily represent IBM’s positions, strategies or opinions.