Recently, I had an enlightening conversation with a colleague, who I'll call Alex. Our discussion challenged and helped me identify an area of improvement in my approach to leadership. The discussion centered on how I could empower my team more effectively, minimizing the pitfalls of micromanagement and my desire to control or make everything perfect to my standard. Which by the way, is not always the best standard for the team or product...no matter how hard I try to convince them. At the same time, I realize the value in constructive tension and debate, trying to keep an open mind but not an empty head has proven to be a differentiator for our team...creating new value that could have otherwise been untaped.

Alex pointed out a crucial nuance in leadership—how to coach and guide without becoming a bottleneck. This feedback was a game-changer for me. It sparked a deeper reflection on my role not just as a leader but as a facilitator of my team's independence and decision-making capabilities.

The core of situational leadership is adaptability—understanding when to step in and when to step back. Alex's insights prompted me to consider important questions: Is it beneficial or necessary to intervene in my team's decisions? What impact does my involvement have on their passion for and ownership of their projects? Is it needed based on our timeline, quality standard, and customer value we hope to achieve?

This perspective is vital in our fast-paced work environments where every decision can lead to significant outcomes for our team and customers. It challenges me to assess the balance of my inputs and when to let the team's collective wisdom lead the way.

Leadership, at its best, facilitates growth, learning, and the development of new ideas. It's about knowing which "dials" to adjust—when to dial up guidance and when to dial down direct oversight, to become more of a coach who leaves room for autonomy. This dynamic tuning is not just about achieving a well-oiled machine but about nurturing a space where innovation and creativity flourish.

None of this reflection and subsequent growth in my leadership practice would be possible without Alex's willingness to provide candid, constructive feedback. It is a reminder of the strength found in vulnerability—both in giving and receiving feedback.

This journey of leadership is an ongoing process of experimentation and learning. Each step forward is propelled by the courage to question, the readiness to adapt, and the commitment to foster an environment where every team member can thrive.

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Until next time,

T