Stop Holding Back: Leadership
Stop Holding Back: Why Great Leaders Must Take Control and Facilitate Change
Many leaders struggle with the responsibility of guiding change, often feeling trapped in outdated hierarchical structures that prioritise status over facilitation. This fear of being seen as authoritarian leads to circular conversations lacking clear direction, creating frustration and stifling meaningful change.
Effective leadership is not about maintaining power but rather facilitating progress and leveraging collective wisdom. Leaders must be willing to take ownership, make informed decisions, and provide clarity, even when they don’t have all the answers.
The best leaders know when to assert control while fostering an environment that encourages discussion and collaboration. This approach helps teams prioritise, navigate challenges, and overcome stagnation, moving away from the "rigor mortis" effect that hinders progress.
In a charity I worked with that was facing organisational stagnation due to internal conflicts, the CEO recognised the need for change when team meetings often devolved into unproductive arguments. By adopting a facilitative leadership style, the CEO encouraged open brainstorming sessions where all team members could share their ideas and actively fostered a supportive atmosphere. When discussions stalled, the CEO confidently summarised key points and guided the team towards actionable plans, transforming a frustrating dynamic into one of collaboration. This approach not only empowered the team but ultimately led to the successful launch of a new community initiative that exceeded expectations.
For female leaders and compassionate male leaders, societal expectations may create additional pressure to be collaborative, often leading to reluctance in asserting authority. As noted by Fumitake Koga and Ichiro Kishimi in their book, The Courage to Be Disliked, the world is not always conducive to understanding, making assertive yet compassionate leadership critical.
Leaders can enhance collaboration by engaging openly, creating spaces where facilitation is natural, promoting dynamic progress and innovation. When leaders facilitate effectively, team members feel heard, valued, and motivated to contribute, fostering a culture of trust and shared commitment.
Consider these questions as you reflect on your leadership style:
What challenges do you face in adopting a facilitative style?
How do you balance collaboration with the need for decisive action?
How can you foster engagement while supporting team assertiveness?
By embracing facilitative leadership, modern and future-proofed leaders transform fear and indecision into dynamic actions that drive progress. This style cultivates trust, collaboration, and innovation, empowering teams to tackle challenges confidently. As you reflect on your own approach, remember that effective leadership requires the courage to facilitate change. Commit to inspiring your team toward shared goals, and you’ll unlock their full potential and create a lasting impact.
Stefan
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An executive coach who specialises in helping good people lead great things.
Good people care about others, our planet and beauty. Great things are changes for the betterment of society and all that lives within an around it.
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