Leaders, does your team act with agency?

Leaders, does your team act with agency? Think about it—agency is the power to act independently, steering a path rather than being a passive bystander. It's what separates leaders from followers.

?? Signs your team is embracing agency:

• They don't wait for permission: They spot opportunities and dive in.
• They prioritize ruthlessly: Saying no isn't a limitation, it's a strategy to free up time for what truly matters.
• They empower themselves and others: They speak up and foster a culture of empowerment around them.

But what blocks agency?

• Fear of failure can paralyze decision-making.
• A disempowering culture that penalizes mistakes or values conformity over creativity.
• Overdependence on guidance stifles independent decision-making skills.

Boost your team’s agency with these tips:

• Address culture: If your culture disincentivizes agency, it’s time to talk about it.
• Set clear personal and team goals: Clear, SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, time-bound) goals encourage proactive behavior.
• Encourage risk-taking: Build confidence with achievable challenges that require calculated risk.
• Foster feedback: Encourage feedback from peers on agency to refine actions and approach.

?? Does your team lead with agency, or are they waiting for someone else to take the lead?

If you’re ready to strengthen your team’s leadership agency and drive impactful changes, let’s talk about my Inspirational Leadership Program. Find my calendar link in the Featured section of my profile.