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“I was thinking that we could incorporate XYZ, and I’ve been speaking to a couple of providers to look at options which I will share…”

These words, spoken by one of our newest team members during this week’s meeting, took me by surprise. It wasn’t just her initiative that caught my attention – it was the fact that, in such a short time, she felt empowered to bring her ideas to the table, confidently and openly. In that moment, I felt immense gratitude for “the way we do things around here”.

Here was a new voice already shifting the way we think and solve problems, showing us the gift of diverse perspectives and creativity. And I couldn’t help but think of how this moment perfectly captures the spirit of our Leader As Coach programme practices:

1. Creating Space: Stepping back to let others contribute their thoughts, ideas, and perspectives.
2. Asking Better Questions: Guiding through inquiry rather than directive, allowing solutions to emerge naturally.
3. Active Listening: Engaging on multiple levels to understand rather than merely respond.

Together, these skills may sound simple, but their impact is profound. They challenge leaders to move from the instinctive role of directing to a more open, empowering stance that makes space for others to lead.

Lessons Beyond Leadership

This approach doesn’t just apply to work; I’ve found it essential in parenting, too. When I choose to listen more, guide rather than direct, and give my daughters the space to find their own solutions, I not only witness their growth but am often inspired by the fresh perspectives they bring. Parenting has shown me that when I stop controlling every outcome, I create a safe space for learning and growth.

One of the principles we emphasise in the Leader As Coach programme is the art of listening. We encourage leaders to listen on multiple levels, not just to respond but to understand deeply. And it’s amazing how, when we listen in this way, new insights emerge. As one participant shared:

“I never realised how much my team had to offer until I stopped filling every silence. When I held back, they filled that space with creativity, solutions, and ideas I’d never considered.”

Feedback from the Field

A recent cohort of participants has shared insightful feedback, revealing just how powerful and challenging embracing this coaching mindset can be:

• “Stepping Out of the Way”: “It’s a constant reminder to step out of the way,” one participant reflected, “and while it’s not easy, it’s freeing. I see my team more engaged, and I feel less of the burden to solve every issue myself.”
• “Moving from Hero to Guide”: Shifting to a coaching role often requires leaders to let go of the need to have all the answers. This approach creates a ripple effect within teams, encouraging them to take ownership, innovate, and support one another.
• “Modelling Curiosity and Patience”: When leaders embody curiosity, openness, and patience, their teams mirror these qualities.

This is exactly why I’m excited to reconnect with last year’s cohort soon for a refresher and accountability session. I can’t wait to hear how they’ve been using these skills to foster growth within their teams and what lessons they’ve learned along the way.

A Call to Let Go

As I share in my Let Go Leadershipbook – leadership, like parenting, benefits from a mindset shift. If we can let go and create space, we might just be surprised by what emerges.

So, embrace the idea that sometimes less direction means more growth. As leaders, we don’t need all the answers. Often, we just need to ask the right questions and trust in the diversity that people around us have to offer.