6 Transformative Leadershifts to Ensure Success

Through my experience working with hundreds of entrepreneurs and executives, I’ve identified a set of transformative changes—what I call "leadershifts"—that can dramatically enhance effectiveness and success. These shifts are critical for evolving from good to great leadership.

Here are six key leadershifts that accelerate growth, amplify impact, and drive lasting success:

1. Leading from Your Inner Coach, Not Your Inner Critic

Belief: Self-criticism is necessary for growth and improvement.

Expression: Harsh self-talk, focus on flaws, constant feeling of inadequacy.

Truth: Research shows that self-compassion, rather than self-criticism, leads to better mental health and higher performance. By shifting from your inner critic to your inner coach, you can foster a more supportive and motivating internal dialogue.

Shift: Embrace self-compassion and become your own best coach. Encourage yourself through challenges and recognize your achievements. This positive internal environment will reflect in your leadership style, creating a more empowering atmosphere for your team.

2. Leading from Being, Not Doing

Belief: Constant action and busyness are signs of productivity and success.

Expression: Overworking, multitasking, and burnout.

Truth: Effective leadership stems from a state of being rather than doing. It's about presence, mindfulness, and intentionality.

Shift: Focus on being present and mindful in your interactions and decisions. Take time for reflection and strategic thinking rather than getting caught up in endless tasks. This approach will enable you to lead with clarity and purpose, making more impactful decisions.

3. Leading with Your Whole Body, Not Just Your Head

Belief: Logical and analytical thinking are paramount in decision-making.

Expression: Over-reliance on data and intellect, neglecting emotional and physical cues.

Truth: Leading effectively requires integrating emotional intelligence and somatic awareness with cognitive abilities.

Shift: Develop somatic intelligence by paying attention to your body's signals and emotions. Practice mindfulness and emotional regulation techniques (exercise, breathwork, journaling, etc.). This holistic approach will help you navigate complex situations with greater ease and empathy.

4. Leading from Equanimity, Not Stress and Fear

Belief: Stress and fear are necessary to drive performance and results.

Expression: High anxiety, reactive decision-making, and burnout.

Truth: Leading from a place of equanimity promotes better decision-making, resilience, and a healthier work environment.

Shift: Cultivate equanimity by practicing mindfulness, stress-reduction techniques, and emotional regulation. Encourage a calm and balanced approach to leadership challenges. This will not only enhance your own well-being but also create a more stable and supportive atmosphere for your team.

5. Leading by Active Listening and Inquiry, Not Directing and Fixing

Belief: Leaders should have all the answers and provide clear directives.

Expression: Dominating conversations, giving unsolicited advice, and micromanaging.

Truth: Active listening and inquiry foster a collaborative and innovative environment. They empower team members and encourage ownership.

Shift: Practice active listening by fully engaging with your team, asking open-ended questions, and showing genuine interest in their perspectives. This approach will build trust and promote a culture of shared leadership and creativity.

6. Leading by Enabling, Not Controlling

Belief: Control is essential to maintain order and achieve results.

Expression: Micromanagement, resistance to delegation, and high levels of stress.

Truth: Controlling stifles both your growth and your team’s ability to scale. Releasing and enabling fosters a more resilient, innovative, and adaptable organization.

Shift: Address your fears so that you can release the need for control. Empower your team by trusting their abilities, granting autonomy, and fostering a culture of accountability and innovation.

Conclusion

Incorporating these six leadershifts into your leadership approach can be truly transformative. As you shift from self-criticism to self-compassion, from constant action to mindful presence, and from control to empowerment, you'll begin to lead with greater clarity, purpose, and resilience.

These shifts, of course, aren’t just about improving your own effectiveness—they’re about fostering an environment where your team can thrive, adapt, and innovate in today’s fast-paced world. By listening more, delegating with trust, and cultivating a sense of calm amidst the inevitable challenges, you set the foundation for sustained success and well-being.

Leadership is about evolution, not perfection. It's about being aware of how you're leading, identifying areas for growth, and committing to leveling up. Now is the perfect time to get intentional about the leadershifts you can make to amplify your impact and that of your team.