What Personal Habits Contribute to Effective Leadership?

What Personal Habits Contribute to Effective Leadership?

Imagine leadership as the art of sailing—a balance between navigating tumultuous waves and guiding the vessel with unwavering direction. Seeking wisdom from thirty-four high-performing leaders, their insights reveal how effective habits sharpen their leadership acumen. A CEO initiates the journey by stressing the importance of differentiating reversible and irreversible decisions, emphasizing uniquely strategic thinking. Concluding this wealth of knowledge, a Chief Growth Strategist highlights the strength found in intentionally embracing discomfort, rounding out a diverse spectrum of expert strategies.

• Separate Reversible and Irreversible Decisions
• Seek Regular Feedback
• Write for Clarity and Decision-Making
• Prioritize Getting Enough Sleep
• Engage in a Meaningful Hobby
• Dedicate Time to Mentoring
• Utilize the Eisenhower Matrix
• Embrace Silence and Beginner's Mindset
• Instill Genuine Morale
• Be an Avid Tinkerer
• Systemize Processes for Efficiency
• Cultivate Curiosity
• Reserve Time for Personal Development
• Practice Decisiveness
• Maintain a Consistent Exercise Routine
• Build Strong Relationships and Network
• Prioritize Daily Reading
• Hire Based on Character
• Write Weekly-Reflection Emails
• Have a Clear Vision
• Listen More Than You Speak
• Set Clear Priorities Daily
• Delegate Tasks Effectively
• Focus on Personalized Leadership
• Meditate Daily
• Write Creatively Weekly
• Express Gratitude Regularly
• Practice Active Listening
• Stay Hands-On with Work
• Set Aside Bias and Ego
• Lead with Integrity
• Thoroughly Prepare for Projects
• Build Strong Customer Relationships
• Intentionally Expose Yourself to Discomfort

Separate Reversible and Irreversible Decisions

One key habit I’ve embraced, inspired by Jeff Bezos, is separating reversible decisions from irreversible ones. By doing this, I can move quickly on things that aren’t permanent, knowing we can adjust course if needed. For decisions that have a long-lasting impact, I take more time to analyze. This approach has allowed me to make faster decisions while ensuring that more significant choices are carefully thought through, ultimately boosting my effectiveness as a leader.

Seek Regular Feedback

Seeking feedback regularly has been crucial to my effectiveness as a leader. Understanding strengths and areas needing improvement creates an environment where everyone feels heard. This open culture fosters trust, making the team more cohesive and productive. When people know their input is valued, they're more likely to engage and contribute more effectively.

One approach I recommend is the "Start, Stop, Continue" framework. It's simple and direct: team members provide feedback on what I should start doing, stop doing, and continue doing. This method not only highlights areas for growth but also reinforces positive behaviors. It keeps the feedback focused and actionable, ensuring that it leads to tangible improvements.

Encouraging honest feedback isn't just beneficial for personal growth; it shapes the entire team. When leaders show a willingness to learn and adapt, it sets a powerful example. This habit of seeking feedback turns leadership into a shared journey of continuous learning. It makes the team more agile and ready to face challenges together.

Write for Clarity and Decision-Making

For me, writing isn't just about content creation—it's a tool for clarity and decision-making. When I write, whether it's a social media post, a blog, or even planning out business strategies, it forces me to slow down, organize my thoughts, and focus on what really matters.

In early 2023, I committed to writing daily on LinkedIn. It quickly became a powerful habit, not only helping me build a large audience but also providing a structured way to reflect on my work, refine ideas, and communicate better with my team. Writing every day forces discipline and helps align my personal growth with business goals.

Prioritize Getting Enough Sleep

I prioritize getting enough sleep. Running a business requires focus, energy, and quick decision-making, and without proper rest, it's hard to function at your best. Prioritizing sleep means I'm more alert, less stressed, and able to think clearly, which has a direct impact on how I manage the team and handle challenges.

Getting a solid night's sleep allows me to approach each day with a fresh mind-set and the patience to handle complex situations. It's a simple habit, but it makes a huge difference in how effectively I lead and support the team.

Engage in a Meaningful Hobby

One personal habit that contributes to my effectiveness as a leader is having a meaningful hobby outside of work. For me, practicing Chinese martial arts not only keeps me physically active but also strengthens my mental discipline. The philosophy behind balance, focus, and persistence translates directly into my work and leadership approach. I’ve found that engaging in something you're passionate about, even when there’s no financial reward, fuels your drive and positively influences how you show up professionally and personally.

Dedicate Time to Mentoring

I make it a point to dedicate time each week to mentor someone outside my immediate circle or even outside the company. Engaging with diverse perspectives keeps me grounded and exposes me to fresh ideas and approaches. This habit not only contributes to personal growth but also brings new insights back to my organization. It reinforces the value of continuous learning and the importance of giving back to the community.

Mentoring others is important because it expands my horizons beyond the day-to-day operations of our company. It challenges me to think differently and stay adaptable in an ever-changing industry. By contributing to someone else's growth, I also refine my communication and leadership skills. This reciprocal learning enriches our company culture and keeps innovation at the forefront.

Utilize the Eisenhower Matrix

Effective leadership often hinges on solid time-management. Using techniques like the Eisenhower Matrix, I categorize tasks to pinpoint what's both urgent and important. This approach ensures I concentrate on high-impact activities, thereby maximizing productivity while minimizing stress.

The Eisenhower Matrix breaks tasks into four quadrants: urgent and important, important but not urgent, urgent but not important, and neither urgent nor important. Placing tasks in these categories helps prioritize effectively. Working on essential tasks that yield significant results first and delegating or postponing lesser priorities becomes straightforward.

Incorporating this method into daily routines keeps distractions at bay and ensures that goals align with actions. Building a habit around clear priorities promotes a focused work environment, driving efficiency and effectiveness as a leader.

Embrace Silence and Beginner's Mindset

One habit that's been key to my effectiveness as a leader is embracing silence and maintaining a beginner's mindset. While these two traits might seem contradictory at first glance, they actually complement each other in fostering a powerful leadership style.

Silence makes room for deeper hearing and deep reflection. It lets people say everything they want, building trust and open discussion within a team. It also shows that you value other people's ideas and opinions, which is very important for making connections and working together.

On the other hand, maintaining a beginner's mindset makes me curious and ready to learn in every setting. It keeps me from getting comfortable or making assumptions based on what I know from the past. By being honest that I don't know all the answers, I make it easy for everyone to participate and share their unique ideas. This approach has been very helpful in the fuel business, where keeping ahead of the curve and adjusting to new technologies and market trends is key to success.

These two habits are two sides of the same coin. They help me be a leader with both confidence and respect, knowing when to make decisions and when to listen and learn. This dual nature has helped me get through the tough problems in the fuel business and build a successful business.

Instill Genuine Morale

Ability to instill morale in a team. The difference between employees who do the bare minimum and a team that goes out of their way to get the job done is morale. Morale is the invisible force that encourages a team to push, sacrifice, and achieve a goal. I lead by example. Whether the team is brainstorming solutions to a challenge, celebrating a win, or debating an issue, I actively participate. Seeing me invested increases their morale and belief in collective ability.

Morale, built on empty praise or forced positivity as most leaders do, crumbles fast. Ignite genuine enthusiasm within your team through transparency. We have successfully created a sales force of team players and creative problem-solvers who would go the extra mile for our clients.

Be an Avid Tinkerer

I am an avid tinkerer. Over time, I've learned about writing, law, cooking, various languages, computer programming, graphic design, and dozens of other skills. This broad range of knowledge allows me to be a more effective leader because I have informed expectations for what my team is working on and can empathize when it doesn't go according to plan.

Systemize Processes for Efficiency

One habit that contributed greatly to my effectiveness as a leader is systemization. I realized pretty early on that it is important to document every process, creating systems that could basically run themselves.

This habit turned out to be one of those game-changing ingredients, particularly when Design Hero (my other company) scaled. Automation of repeat work and structured workflows freed up the mental space for growth and strategic decisions.

I implemented tools like ClickUp and Calendly, which allowed me to manage client projects and schedules without having to micromanage. This reduced my stress and ensured things ran smoothly when I wasn't directly involved.

With these systems in place, I managed to save time, and the results for my clients also remained consistent.

It is a practice that has taught me through application that leadership is not necessarily about making big decisions. It's about creating the right environment for things to fall in place as planned, with minimal supervision. I think this approach is the best for our companies moving forward for long-term success and sustainability.

Cultivate Curiosity

Curiosity has been my secret weapon as a business leader. It’s not just about gathering knowledge; it’s about cultivating a mindset of continuous growth and exploration. Curiosity keeps me ahead of industry trends and ready to pivot with market changes, positioning my business for success. Companies that embrace curiosity and innovation are more likely to launch breakthrough products—now that’s a game-changer!

But curiosity doesn’t stop there. It sparks innovation and opens the door to fresh ideas and solutions. It also helps me connect deeply with my team, understanding their motivations and challenges. This fosters trust and collaboration, creating an unstoppable force. Research shows that engaged employees are more productive, proving that when you truly understand your team, everyone wins.

Most importantly, my enthusiasm for learning inspires my team to dive into their own journeys of discovery, creating a vibrant culture of continuous improvement. In today’s fast-paced business landscape, curiosity isn’t just a trait; it’s the heartbeat of effective leadership and organizational success.

Reserve Time for Personal Development

One habit that I’ve cultivated over my career as a leader is to reserve at least two hours every week for learning and personal development. This learning can take different forms depending on what else I have going on. When it’s a busy week, and I don’t have a lot of extra time, it might simply mean listening to an audiobook on leadership, recruiting, etc., during my commutes. When I have more time and mental energy to spare, I might watch a webinar, take part in a workshop, or attend a seminar or panels at a conference. The specific activity is less important than the fact that I always make time in my schedule to learn and grow.

This kind of ongoing learning makes me a better leader in multiple ways. For one thing, I’m constantly expanding my knowledge and skills and can apply those things I learn to my work. It also sends a message to the team that I’m fully committed to continuous learning, which has made it easier to instill that kind of culture across the workplace. When I’m taking part in more active learning like workshops and conferences, I’ll share information about them with my colleagues and encourage them to take part, too. We also have a habit of sharing the most useful things we learn with each other, bringing that knowledge back to the entire team so that we can all grow as a result.

Practice Decisiveness

My decisiveness has helped me immensely as a leader. I've never been the type to hem-and-haw over a choice; rather, I make it and move on. I've noticed that people I admire have the same tendency. On the flip side, those who have trouble choosing an actionable path tend to be wishy-washy in other areas too. They often don't have a strong sense of self, and this can lead to a lack of confidence. It can also make it hard to stick to one's ethics. Being open-minded is one thing, but if you're too easily persuadable, it can look like fair-weather morality.

I'd recommend other business owners try going on instinct for a week. Then, look back and consider your success rate. You might just find that giving a decision too long to marinate actually lessens its eventual efficacy. This is a case of less being more.

Maintain a Consistent Exercise Routine

Maintaining a consistent exercise routine is a cornerstone of my effectiveness as a leader. Regular physical activity helps manage stress and boosts my overall well-being, both physically and mentally. This habit provides the stamina needed to tackle day-to-day challenges, ensuring I stay energized and focused throughout my workday.

Exercise routines have a significant impact on mental clarity. Whether it's a morning run or an evening gym session, these activities clear my mind, allowing for better decision-making and problem-solving. High-pressure situations become easier to navigate, as the mental boost from regular exercise enhances my ability to stay calm and think critically.

A practical approach involves scheduling workouts just like meetings. Treat exercise as a non-negotiable part of your daily agenda. This ensures it remains a regular part of your routine, helping to foster resilience, maintain high energy levels, and keep your mind sharp. Investing this time into your physical health translates directly into improved leadership performance.

Build Strong Relationships and Network

Building strong relationships and expanding your network are paramount to effective leadership. Every week, I set aside time to connect with peers and mentors. These interactions are not just about exchanging pleasantries, but about exploring mutual interests and potential collaborations. The insights and support I receive from these connections often translate into actionable strategies and opportunities for growth.

The essence of effective networking lies in genuine engagement and consistent follow-up. Rather than casting a wide net, focus on cultivating deeper connections with a core group of professionals. Regular coffee meetings, quick catch-up calls, or shared industry events can significantly strengthen these relationships. This approach not only broadens your knowledge base but also positions you as a valuable resource within your network.

Implementing a framework like the "5-3-1" rule can streamline your networking efforts. Reach out to five new contacts, nurture three existing relationships, and solidify one key connection each week. This structured approach ensures that networking remains a priority without becoming overwhelming. Over time, these relationships become instrumental in driving both personal and professional growth, anchoring your leadership in a robust support system.

Prioritize Daily Reading

The personal habit that has greatly enhanced my effectiveness as a leader is prioritizing reading daily. I set aside time daily to delve into books, articles, and case studies related to business strategy, leadership, and industry trends. This habit broadens my perspective and provides valuable insights that I can apply to our operations at BestOnlineCabinets. I’m better equipped to anticipate challenges and seize opportunities by staying informed. Sharing key takeaways with my team fosters a culture of learning and encourages others to explore new ideas, ultimately driving innovation and growth within the company.

Hire Based on Character

At our HVAC company, we are committed to hiring based on character rather than solely on skills. This has been fundamental in building a strong, cohesive team that aligns with our company's values and culture. I firmly believe that skills can be taught and developed over time, but character is inherent.

When I interview potential team members, I prioritize their integrity, work ethic, and attitude. I once hired a candidate who didn't have extensive technical experience but demonstrated exceptional problem-solving abilities and a genuine desire to learn. This individual quickly adapted to our work environment, embraced our company values, and became a valuable team player.

By focusing on character, we have created a workplace where trust, collaboration, and mutual respect thrive. This habit supports a positive company culture, as team members feel supported and valued for who they are, not just what they can do. It also enhances employee retention, as individuals who align with our values are more likely to stay engaged and committed to the company's mission.

Write Weekly-Reflection Emails

Writing a weekly-reflection email to myself has improved my effectiveness overall. Every Friday afternoon, I sit down to write about what I have completed that week, what is still in progress, and what the plan is for next week. This not only allows me to mentally pack the week away, but it means that I know exactly where to pick up again when I return on Monday morning. This has been one of the healthiest habits I have adopted, as it empowers me to take some time off on the weekend and actually relax.

Have a Clear Vision

Having a clear vision for the future is a habit that's crucial to my effectiveness as a leader. I regularly set aside time to think about where I want my business to be in the next few years.

This habit keeps me focused, helps guide my team with purpose, and allows us to navigate challenges more confidently. It's not just about goals but about pushing boundaries, seeing opportunities others might miss, and inspiring everyone to work toward that bigger picture together.

Listen More Than You Speak

One habit that truly shapes my leadership is listening more than I speak. It's easy to assume we have all the answers, but the best insights often come from others. By asking questions and genuinely hearing my team's thoughts, I discover solutions I might've missed.

It's not about pretending to listen—it's about valuing every perspective. This simple habit has made decision-making more grounded and keeps me connected to what really matters in our work.

Set Clear Priorities Daily

One habit that helps me be an effective leader is starting each day by setting clear priorities. At Wimpole Clinic, there’s always a lot going on, and it’s easy to get caught up in the daily hustle.

Taking a few minutes each morning to focus on the most important tasks keeps me grounded and ensures I tackle the clinic’s and our clients’ key needs. This helps me stay organized, make better decisions, and be available to my team.

Having clear goals allows me to lead with purpose and ensure that everything we do supports the clinic’s long-term vision. It’s a simple routine, but it greatly impacts how I manage people and projects.

Delegate Tasks Effectively

Delegating tasks effectively is very important. Early in my career, I realized that trying to do everything myself not only overwhelmed me but also hindered the growth of my team and the business as a whole. Learning to trust my employees with responsibilities has been a game-changer.

Delegation allows me to focus on high-level strategy and decision-making while empowering my team members to take ownership of their roles. Assigning tasks according to each person's strengths and expertise, I am able to increase productivity as well as encourage a sense of accountability and confidence within the team. When we took on a large residential project that required extensive planning and coordination, I delegated specific responsibilities to team leaders based on their individual skills. This streamlined our workflow and made sure that each part of the project was managed by someone with the right experience.

It also helps in cultivating a collaborative culture where team members feel valued and heard. It opens up opportunities for mentorship, as I can guide my staff while they take the lead on projects. This habit has not only improved operational efficiency but also contributed to higher employee satisfaction, as everyone feels more involved in the success of our company.

Focus on Personalized Leadership

It's tough to pick just one habit, but if I had to choose, it’s shifting my perception of leadership from being about me to focusing on the people in front of me. For me, this means leaning into personalized leadership.

A common limiting belief about leadership is that we have to embody these larger-than-life figures—like Malala or Mandela. Don’t get me wrong, their impact is incredible, and there’s always something to learn from them. But thinking we have to match that can be overwhelming and distract from how we cultivate our own leadership style.

What takes the pressure off is shifting your perspective to focus on your people. Personalized leadership is key here. A one-size-fits-all approach just doesn’t work, especially if you’re managing a diverse group of individuals. Every person has their own strengths, communication styles, and motivators. To lead effectively, I’ve learned to adapt my style to meet each person where they are, instead of expecting them to fit a mold.

Personalized leadership means taking the time to really understand each team member—not just what they do, but what drives them, what challenges them, and how they prefer to communicate. It’s about going deeper to build a meaningful connection so that I can offer the right support and guidance to help them thrive. At the end of the day, it’s relationship-building. If you understand people as individuals, you’ll be far more effective at leading them as a team.

In my experience, this approach fosters trust and engagement in ways that traditional leadership styles don’t. When people feel understood and valued for who they are, they’re more motivated and bring their best selves to work.

Another big piece of personalized leadership is about investing in each person’s growth. Instead of assuming everyone wants the same kind of career progression or recognition, I have regular conversations with each team member about their goals and aspirations. This helps me guide them in a way that aligns with their personal goals and shows them a clear path for growth—leading to higher retention and overall satisfaction.

Ultimately, personalized leadership creates a high-performance culture where people feel empowered to do their best work. It requires intention and effort, but the payoff is huge: stronger relationships, more trust, better performance, and a motivated, engaged team.

Meditate Daily

Meditation. Every day, I carve out time to sit in silence and just breathe. In the middle of all the noise and decisions, those few quiet minutes help me reset and approach things with a fresh perspective. I’ve noticed it makes me more patient and thoughtful, which is huge when leading a team. Plus, when I’m grounded, I can show up better for my team, handle stress more smoothly, and keep everyone moving in the right direction.

Write Creatively Weekly

I spend time writing creatively every week. I am passionate about it—not because it relates directly to my work in a daily way—but because it shapes the way I lead. When I step away from spreadsheets and strategy meetings and start creating poems or short stories, I engage another area of my brain, one that needs metaphor and story rather than logical analysis.

It keeps my brain nimble and creative, allowing for innovation and compassion, two essential attributes in leadership. It also helps me to express myself, as telling stories helps me express my ideas more realistically. Bringing this entrepreneurial mindset back to my leadership is a way for me to not only enhance the way I interact with my team, but also how I solve problems, to be a more balanced leader. It's not a particularly intuitive practice when it comes to fostering better business leadership, but it does prove valuable to my performance and the well-being of our culture.

Express Gratitude Regularly

A habit that significantly enhanced my leadership effectiveness is making a deliberate effort to express gratitude regularly. I take the time to acknowledge and thank each team member for their contributions personally. Whether it’s a handwritten note or a face-to-face conversation, I focus on recognizing specific achievements and efforts. For example, if a team member has successfully managed a complex case or implemented an innovative approach, I highlight these accomplishments and convey my appreciation directly.

The impact of this practice extends beyond just making team members feel good. I foster a positive and supportive work environment by regularly acknowledging their hard work. It creates a culture where everyone feels valued and understood, which can lead to increased job satisfaction and a stronger sense of belonging within the team. This acknowledgment also helps to reinforce the behaviors and efforts that align with our firm’s values and goals.

Practice Active Listening

Active listening is essential at our law firm, where we handle highly-sensitive and emotionally-charged cases. Being an attentive and empathetic listener enables me to truly understand the needs and experiences of both our clients and team members.

I am able to connect with survivors in a meaningful way, ensuring they feel heard and validated during one of the most vulnerable times of their lives. For my team, it creates an environment where they feel supported, respected, and encouraged to share their insights or concerns. This leads to stronger collaboration and a more resilient work culture. It's not just about hearing words; it's about understanding the emotions and motivations behind them. This has made me a more thoughtful leader and helped our firm achieve greater success by staying attuned to the people we serve.

Stay Hands-On with Work

One habit that I believe contributes to my effectiveness as a leader is staying consistently hands-on with the work. I have been involved in the tree service industry since I was a kid, and being out there with my team, getting my hands dirty, helps me understand the challenges they face and gain their respect. It also allows me to ensure the quality of our services firsthand. This direct involvement builds trust within the team and with our clients. Leading by example sets the tone for the entire company.

Set Aside Bias and Ego

Knowing when to set aside my bias and ego. Leading a company often feels like a battle. I want to live up to my dream and achieve the company vision with a team focused on its own visions. External factors come into play and make it more complicated. However, I know when to set aside my biases and ego to make decisions that lead the team in the right direction. I know when to push back and when to level up with people.

For example, I would push back if the marketing team suggested a strategy that relied on a short-lived social media trend. I would use data and past experiences to explain why I am not for the idea and give them alternative strategies to consider. However, pushing too hard can demoralize the team or interfere with their creativity. Knowing how to balance the two makes me a better leader. I get to keep the team motivated as I make objective business decisions.

Lead with Integrity

For me, integrity is not just a habit but a core principle that guides everything I do—both in business and in my personal life. Whether I'm interacting with clients, vendors, or even family and friends, I constantly ask myself a simple question: "If this proposal or decision were made to me, would it be acceptable, and would I move forward with it?" If I feel any hesitation, I know it's time to adjust my approach.

This mindset ensures that the intent behind every decision I make is mutually beneficial. It's not just about closing deals or achieving business goals; it's about creating relationships and outcomes built on trust and respect. Integrity shapes my proposals, conversations, and actions, and it has a direct impact on how I lead my businesses and personal life.

In the long run, making decisions with integrity leads to better outcomes for everyone involved. It ensures that I'm not just pushing forward with what benefits me but considering what benefits others as well. I find that this builds stronger, more trusting relationships, both in business and in life. Ultimately, integrity allows me to lead with purpose and effectiveness, knowing that my actions align with my values and are in the best interest of everyone involved, fostering long-term growth and mutual success.

Thoroughly Prepare for Projects

I think that the secret to my successful leadership is preparation. I can provide clear direction and expectations to my team by thoroughly planning every part of a project or assignment. Because they are aware of exactly what is expected of them and how to handle potential obstacles, they can execute more successfully and efficiently. Proactive planning also helps me manage my staff more efficiently, which lowers stress and boosts output all around.

Build Strong Customer Relationships

One thing that has improved my effectiveness as a leader in the HVAC industry is my focus on building strong customer relationships. I firmly believe that understanding our clients' needs is crucial for providing exceptional service, so I prioritize direct engagement with customers on a regular basis. This commitment goes beyond just addressing immediate concerns; it's about forming a genuine connection that fosters trust and loyalty.

I actively participate in community-sponsorship programs, which allows me to meet potential clients in informal settings and learn about their experiences and expectations in a relaxed atmosphere. Whether sponsoring local sports teams or community events, these interactions provide valuable insights into what our clients care about most. Getting involved in the community allows us to showcase our company's commitment to local values and also gain a better understanding of how we can serve our customers effectively.

Intentionally Expose Yourself to Discomfort

Every day, I make it a habit to intentionally expose myself to discomfort. That might sound counterintuitive, but stepping out of the familiar is how I stay sharp and avoid falling into patterns that might keep me from growing as a leader. Whether it's listening to viewpoints that challenge my own or jumping into a project that pushes me into unfamiliar territory, I look for ways to keep that edge. It could be as simple as spending time understanding an entirely different industry or taking a risk with a creative strategy that isn't the "safe bet." This discomfort forces me to adapt, reflect, and be open to ideas that might not seem obvious at first glance.