Ever have one of those weeks where it feels like you’re swimming upstream? Everything seems harder than it should be? Here’s a truth bomb: Sometimes we, as leaders, are the ones making it harder. Shocking, right? But don’t worry, it’s a growth moment, not a gut punch.
Are You the Roadblock?
Leading a team isn’t just about solving problems; it’s about empowering your team to solve them. Here are some soul-searching questions:
- Have you set crystal-clear expectations?
- Did you, perhaps, change the goal mid-game?
- Do you allow your team to tackle problems in ways you wouldn’t have?
- Are you a perpetual “rescuer,” swooping in to solve everything?
If you answered ‘yes’ to that last one, it’s time to unclench those reins.
The Power of Stepping Back
In the business world, a hero complex can be a villain. Your killer problem-solving skills might have landed you the leadership role, but guess what? To elevate your team, you need to evolve too.
Open-Ended Questions for the Win
Instead of taking charge, encourage your team’s independent thinking. Ask:
- Where are you getting stuck?
- What else have you tried?
- What has worked in the past?
These questions do wonders for empowering your team. They’ll realize they’re not just cogs in a machine; they’re the architects of their own solutions.
The Road to Clarity
Nervous about letting go? Start by setting laser-focused expectations. The clearer the goals, the better your team can chase them down.
đ To ramp up your managerial prowess, sign up for the Thriving Team 20-Day Challenge at liagarvin.com/scorecard. You’ll get a checklist of 20 actions to elevate your game, not just this month but every month.
