How to be a successful leader in 2025

Ready for a great new year?

I certainly am!

To help you prepare for your best year yet, I have put together a list of the top three areas that I believe leaders need to both develop and relinquish in 2025.

I created this list after observing hundreds of leaders in 2024.

I have seen what works, and I have observed some key areas that often hold people back from achieving their goals.

So, as you read my suggestions, think about which of these leadership behaviours you are already acing and where you require some development.

Action vs. Analysis

This is the year where leaders need to focus on taking action and let go of the need for perfectionism and analysis paralysis. If you tend to overthink your choices, this goal is for you.

It’s time to stop overcomplicating your decision-making by constantly weighing your options. Often, there is not one right solution.

So, identify your objective, gather your data, narrow down your options and take faster action on the most desirable alternative.

Rather than wasting your time stuck in analysis paralysis, use your time to create a viable implementation plan and move into action sooner.

Confidence vs. Criticism

In 2025, I’d like to see more leaders develop their confidence and let go of their self-doubt and self-criticism. Unfortunately, I see the habit of self-critical thoughts a lot when working with leaders.

Developing your confidence means that you need to focus on developing a growth mindset.

You have to decide that you are done being hard on yourself. You have to draw a line in the sand and agree to be kinder to yourself.

This means that you need to be vigilant about your self-talk and keep it positive.

This means that you need to get very clear on your strengths and start leveraging them more.

This also means that when you receive a compliment, you accept it graciously. You say, “Thank you,” and accept the positive feedback rather than minimizing or ignoring the message.

Strategic vs. Tactical (and stuck-in-the-weeds)

This is the year to think expansively. These days, the world is a complicated place.

It’s time for leaders to really start challenging the status quo.

It’s going to be really important this year that you get out of the weeds and build time for your team to think strategically.

How can you do this?

Well, start by considering what is working, what is not, and what changes you need to make to improve what’s not working right now.

I’d also suggest that you book quarterly team meetings to discuss and update your strategy and strategic goals.

Which of these three areas do you need to develop this year?

Which habits and behaviours do you need to let go of to be more effective?