"What’s Your Team's “Tink”? Discovering Your Team's Superpower and How Leaders Who Prioritize Professional Self-Care Create Better Teams

When my niece was young, I was her personal assistant, ready to do anything she wanted. I believed these were the moments she would remember. One of her favorite things was watching Tinker Bell, so naturally, we watched a lot of Tinker Bell. Recently, in a nostalgic moment, I found myself watching one of the movies again, needing to self-soothe and find comfort in something familiar.

For those who have never watched Tinker Bell, she’s a fairy born from a baby’s laughter. In Pixie Hollow, where all the fairies live, each one has a special talent that plays a role in balancing the four seasons on Earth. Tinker Bell is a tinker fairy, but in the first movie, she doesn’t think her talent—fixing things—is “magical” enough. It didn’t seem as grand or glamorous as the talents of her fellow fairies. However, as the story progresses, Tinker Bell learns that her talent is not only valuable but essential, and that everyone’s contribution is important in their own way.

Watching this, I started thinking about our purpose at work. So often, we don’t see the full scope of the contributions we make until our talents are nurtured and recognized. This is where leadership comes in. When leaders recognize and encourage the unique talents of their team members—when they nurture their “tink”—the results are transformative. It ties directly into the growth mindset and professional self-care. Leaders who invest in the well-being and development of their employees foster teams that are not only happier but more productive and engaged.

Why Nurturing Talents Matters

Just like in Pixie Hollow, workplaces thrive when everyone is using their specific talent in a way that adds to the bigger picture. However, too often, individuals may feel their contributions aren’t significant enough, just like Tinker Bell did. A leader’s role is to help team members realize their “tink,” that unique talent or skill that makes them shine and adds tremendous value to the team.

Leaders who focus on professional self-care don’t just make their employees feel good; they create environments where talents are discovered, nurtured, and maximized. When leaders take the time to ensure their teams are cared for, both emotionally and professionally, they unlock potential that might otherwise go untapped. The result? Teams that are not only functional but truly exceptional.

How Leaders Can Nurture Their Team’s “Tink” Through Professional Self-Care

Create a Culture of Recognition
Acknowledge individual contributions regularly. It could be through shout-outs in meetings, personalized notes, or public praise for a job well done. When employees feel seen and valued, they are more likely to contribute their unique talents and stay engaged.

Promote Work-Life Balance
Encourage your team to take breaks, use their vacation days, and maintain boundaries between work and home. By promoting a healthy work-life balance, you allow your team to recharge and come back to work with renewed energy and creativity.

Foster Personal and Professional Development
Provide opportunities for growth—whether it’s through mentorship, professional training, or workshops that cater to individual interests. When leaders invest in their employees’ growth, they are showing that they believe in their potential, which encourages employees to put forth their best efforts.

Encourage Autonomy and Creativity
Give your team the freedom to solve problems in their own way. Just like Tinker Bell realized her ability to fix things was her strength, allowing employees to use their unique skills to tackle challenges empowers them to feel more connected and invested in their work.

Prioritize Mental Health and Well-Being
Offer resources like mindfulness workshops, access to therapy, or simply an open-door policy where employees feel comfortable discussing their stress or concerns. Leaders who prioritize their team’s mental health help foster an environment where employees feel supported and are less likely to burn out.

Lead by Example
As a leader, show your team what professional self-care looks like. Take breaks, manage stress, and maintain your work-life balance. By demonstrating that self-care is a priority, you set the tone for a healthier, more balanced work environment.

By helping your team members discover their “tink,” you’re doing more than just boosting productivity—you’re creating a culture where everyone feels valued and essential. When individuals are given the opportunity to thrive, teams become stronger, and success becomes inevitable. Just like Tinker Bell discovered, every talent has a purpose, and with the right leadership, that purpose can shine. So, what’s your team’s “tink”?