3 Simple Steps to Achieve What You Really Want in Leadership

In the fast-paced world of finance, moving into a leadership role can often feel like stepping onto a treadmill that’s set just a little too fast. Balancing expectations, managing teams, and staying on top of a heavy workload can leave little time for clarity, confidence, or the kind of purpose that makes leadership feel fulfilling. But true leadership isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing the right things, with intention.

If you’re ready to shift from surviving to thriving in your role, here are three simple but powerful steps to set you on the path to success:

1. Start with Your Vision: Define What You Really Want

Many leaders find themselves on autopilot, reacting to the demands of the day rather than driving towards a clear purpose. But taking a moment to define your vision—both for your career and your life—can make all the difference. What impact do you want to have? What do you want your leadership to stand for? How do you want to reflect your values? Move from “I’m just trying to keep up” to “I’m building a legacy with intention and purpose.”

Quick Tip: Take 10 minutes to write down a vision statement for your leadership journey. Imagine the kind of leader you want to be and the goals you’re aiming to achieve. Revisit this statement regularly to keep yourself aligned and motivated.

2. Build Habits that Support Sustainable Success

Often, leaders feel they need to be constantly busy to be successful. But overloading yourself only leads to burnout and frustration. Instead, focus on building a few high-impact habits that create lasting change. Whether it’s setting boundaries, prioritising effectively, or delegating with confidence, small habit shifts can have a big impact. Shif from “I have to do it all” to “I create impact through focused, intentional actions.”

Quick Tip: Choose one habit this week that supports your goals, like setting aside focused time each day for high-priority tasks or saying “no” to one extra commitment. Commit to it for a week and see how it feels.

3. Surround Yourself with Supportive Allies

The best leaders know they don’t have to go it alone. Building a strong network of supportive mentors, peers, and allies creates a foundation for resilience, growth, and success. Look for people who will challenge, support, and encourage you as you pursue your goals—and don’t be afraid to reach out. Move from “I have to figure it out alone” to “Support and collaboration are strengths that enhance my leadership.”

Quick Tip: Identify one person in your network who inspires you and ask to connect. A short coffee chat or virtual meeting can open doors, spark insights, and build a support system you can rely on.

Making Leadership Feel Like Home

By defining your vision, building sustainable habits, and creating a support network, you’re taking powerful steps toward a leadership style that feels intentional, balanced, and uniquely yours. Leadership isn’t about constantly proving yourself; it’s about creating a role that aligns with your values, your strengths, and your goals.

Start small, stay consistent, and remember: the best leaders don’t just work hard—they work smart, with purpose and support.

These simple steps aren’t just about doing more—they’re about doing what matters most to you as a leader.