That’s a Wrap!

Perspectives on Leadership is wrapping up its second series on Leadership Mindset. This is the final issue in the series, and the final series we have planned for right now.

That means we’re bringing back the traditional format next week, and I have some great insights to help you have better one-on-one conversations with your direct reports!

Question & Answer

Thanks to everyone who submitted questions over the past five weeks. I’ve selected four to answer this week that I feel are the most pertinent for leaders trying to develop a leadership mindset.

Question 1

In the Areas of Focus newsletter, you mentioned that many leaders focus on the wrong things. I’m constantly putting out fires—how do I balance that with the more strategic focus areas like clarity and development?

Answer

It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day chaos. But if you're always putting out fires, it’s tough to think long-term. One thing you can do is carve out time. Spend an hour each night, after the fires are dealt with, to think about the big picture. The more you do this, the fewer fires you’ll need to put out. Dedicating extra time to get ahead of the fires is the only way out.

Also, don't forget to leverage your team. If you can, delegate some of the day-to-day tasks to others. They’re there for a reason. You can even use some tasks as stretch exercises to test your team’s capabilities.

Question 2

What do I do if my leader isn’t providing the direction or value I need?

Answer

My advice would be to approach the situation with a clear plan. Go to your leader and say, ‘Here’s what I understand our direction to be, here’s the value I’m getting from you, and here’s how I see the mission.’ Ask them to clarify if you’re on the right track or if something needs to change.

Be direct, transparent, and always communicate openly. That’s the key to creating the alignment you need. You also have to ask for help or additional resources when you need them. You want to leave with clarity and confidence that you can deliver the intended outcome.

Question 3

How can I trust my team to solve problems without losing control?

Answer

It’s tough to let go, especially when you’re good at solving problems yourself. But here’s a simple test:

1. Does your team have the capability?

2. Do they have the time and resources to handle it?

3. Do they understand your intent and the end goal?

If the answer is ‘yes’ to these questions, then let them run with it. Keep an eye on their actions so you can offer feedback or correct any major mistakes before they turn into catastrophes. It becomes easier to let go of more and more once you see them succeed.

Question 4

After reading your series, I’m realizing I’ve been stuck in my old identity as a high performer rather than a leader. How do you recommend someone redefine their leadership identity?

Answer

First, you need to ask yourself: Why do you want to be a leader? If you enjoy the high performer role more, that’s okay! But if you're ready to take the leap into leadership, start by engaging with your team. Focus on helping each member of your team get better. Talk to them, learn about their challenges, and help them develop themselves. You’ll be building trust and helping the team perform better.

Now, if you do this and decide you’d rather be producing, then switch back. It’s okay to try leadership and decide it’s not for you.

Thanks for following along in the Leadership Mindset series. I’ll be back in your inbox with more next Tuesday!

Feel free to share this link or forward this email if you think someone else would enjoy it!

And check out our sponsor this week, one that I’ve used and enjoyed!

This Daily Ritual Goes Wherever You Do

Summer travel often means skipped meals, red eye flights, and way too many pastries.

AG1 helps you stay on track with 75+ vitamins, minerals, pre/probiotics, and adaptogens for energy, gut and immune support.

Subscribe to get AG1 + 10 free travel packs, and more—all for under $3 a day.

Get a FREE AG1 Welcome Kit!