Dare to Lead

Moving from fear to courage requires discomfort. Lead change boldly despite uncertainty, ambiguity and risk of criticism. Flinching from discomfort maintains status quo. Challenge assumptions and rituals.

Make improvements before forced to. Risk failure for growth. Difficult conversations produce clarity. Stepping outside comfort zones creates progress. Model your convictions. With purpose as the driver, lean into discomfort.

Daring leadership is uncomfortable but transformative.

• Seek diversity of thoughts and backgrounds, not just skills. Inclusion sparks originality. Provide psychological safety for all voices.
• Address biases head on, however uncomfortable. Listen first, speak later. Avoid dominating; make space for introverts too.
• Clarify misunderstandings with curiosity over defensiveness.

• Espoused values that are incongruent with behaviors breed cynicism. Walk the talk. Make values explicit then live them visibly at all levels, especially under pressure.
• Challenge misalignment respectfully. Be willing to ruffle feathers. Evaluate policies and processes against values.
• Review incentives and behaviors periodically. Adopt practices consciously, not from habit.

Self-reflection strengthens emotional intelligence to manage reactions productively. Know your tendencies under stress. Get insights from assessment tools. Act self-aware, with consciousness not impulse.

Cultivate mindfulness to witness thoughts non-judgmentally. Own strengths and frailties honestly. Identify triggers and hot buttons. Thank critics; feedback is a gift. Develop humility and avoid defensiveness.

Addressing issues openly, however difficult, clears obstacles and builds trust. Avoid leaving elephants unnamed. Frame problems insightfully. Discuss tensions professionally, not personally. Listen generously before responding. Find common purpose.

Rumors and whispers waste energy; address problems directly. Tolerate ambiguity until clarity emerges. Reset relationships with humility and openness.