I used to think formal leadership training was more about ticking boxes than real growth. I worried it might distract from genuinely growing as a leader through day to day work and team interactions. But my views have changed since starting our company's program. I found unexpected value in the program, particularly through exercises like the elevator pitch challenge, requesting and analyzing feedback from team members, and learning from new connections within our large global company.

Recently, I had an enlightening conversation with a colleague, Alex, that challenged and refined 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 and open mind but not an empty had has proven to be a differentiator for our team...creating new value that could have otherwise been untaped.