Evolving as a Leader: Lessons from Scaling People.

Over the past 20 years as an HR professional, I’ve had the privilege of working with diverse teams, supporting leaders, and navigating organizational challenges. One thing I’ve learned is that leadership is not a fixed role—it’s a journey of constant growth, learning, and self-discovery. Great leaders are not born; they are shaped by their experiences, their ability to adapt, and their commitment to improving themselves.

?Scaling People: Tactics for Management and Company Building?by Claire Hughes Johnson offers a fresh perspective on what it takes to grow as a leader, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and intentional development. Personal growth is at the heart of effective leadership. It’s not just about learning new skills—it’s about evolving as a person to inspire trust, foster collaboration, and create meaningful impact. In this article, I’ll share my reflections on personal growth as a leader, combining lessons I’ve learned throughout my career with practical strategies to help leaders grow and thrive.

Why Personal Growth is Essential for Leaders

Leadership is not just about guiding others—it’s about setting an example. A leader’s growth directly impacts their team and organization. When leaders invest in their personal development, they inspire trust, foster collaboration, and create a culture of continuous improvement.

Key Lessons on Personal Growth as a Leader

• Self-Awareness is the Foundation One of the most important aspects of leadership growth is self-awareness. Understanding your strengths, weaknesses, and how your actions affect others is critical. Self-aware leaders are better equipped to make decisions, build trust, and adapt to challenges.

Over the years, I’ve worked with leaders who excelled because they took the time to reflect on their behavior and its impact on their teams. Asking yourself questions like?What are my strengths? Where do I need to improve? How do my actions affect my team??is a great starting point for growth. Seeking feedback from others can also help uncover blind spots and guide your development.

• Emotional Intelligence is a Game-Changer Emotional intelligence (EQ) is one of the most important skills for leaders. It involves understanding and managing your emotions while also being empathetic toward others. Leaders with high EQ can navigate conflicts, build strong relationships, and create a positive work environment.

I’ve seen firsthand how leaders with strong EQ can turn difficult situations into opportunities for growth. Simple actions like active listening, showing empathy, and staying calm under pressure can make a big difference in how you’re perceived as a leader.

• Feedback is a Tool for Growth Feedback is one of the most powerful tools for personal development. Leaders should not only give feedback but also actively seek it. Honest feedback helps identify areas for improvement and refine leadership styles.

In my experience, leaders who embrace feedback as a gift are the ones who grow the most. Asking for feedback requires humility and openness, but it shows your team that you’re willing to grow and sets an example for them to do the same.

• Growth Requires Intentional Effort Leadership growth doesn’t happen by accident—it requires focus and effort. Setting personal development goals, seeking mentorship, and continuously learning are all important steps. Whether it’s reading books, attending workshops, or taking on new challenges, leaders must prioritize their own growth.

I’ve seen leaders grow the most when they step out of their comfort zones. Taking on new responsibilities, learning from mistakes, and embracing uncertainty are all part of the growth process.

Practical Steps for Leadership Growth

1. Reflect Regularly:?Take time to think about your leadership style, decisions, and interactions. Journaling or asking yourself reflective questions can help you gain clarity.
2. Seek Feedback:?Ask your team, peers, and mentors for honest feedback about your leadership. Use this input to identify areas for improvement.
3. Practice Emotional Intelligence:?Listen actively, show empathy, and stay calm in difficult situations.
4. Set Goals:?Identify specific areas where you want to grow and create a plan to achieve them.
5. Find a Mentor:?A mentor or coach can provide valuable guidance and support as you navigate your growth journey.

Final Thoughts

Over my 20 years in HR, I’ve had the privilege of working with leaders at all stages of their journey. One thing I’ve learned is that leadership is not about being perfect—it’s about being willing to learn and grow. The best leaders are those who are open to feedback, self-aware, and committed to improving themselves.

Personal growth is not just about improving your skills—it’s about becoming the kind of leader who inspires trust, collaboration, and innovation. Leadership is a journey, and every step you take toward growth benefits not only you but also the people and organizations you serve.

Disclaimer

This article reflects my personal takeaways from Scaling People by Claire Hughes Johnson. I suggest reading the book for a deeper understanding.