10 Leadership Behaviors to Stop: My Personal Journey in Overcoming Leadership Challenges

Being a leader in today’s fast-paced business world means navigating constant change. But let’s be honest—it’s not always smooth sailing. I’ve struggled with habits that held my team back; learning to abandon them hasn’t been easy. Here are ten counterproductive behaviors I’ve had to let go of (and still work on) to create a better environment for change.

1. Micromanaging

Why stop: It stifles creativity and autonomy, leading to frustration.

I used to think micromanaging meant staying on top of things. Instead, it left my team feeling smothered. When I finally let go and trusted them to take charge, their productivity soared.

Tip: Set clear goals, then back off. Check in for support, not control.

2. Resisting New Ideas

Why stop: Sticking to old methods limits innovation.

I’ll admit, I was resistant to new approaches, thinking I knew best. But when I saw how my reluctance held the team back, I realized change was necessary.

Tip: Test new ideas on a trial basis. Being open to fresh strategies can reveal better solutions.

3. Avoiding Difficult Conversations

Why stop: Avoiding tough talks lets problems fester.

I avoided conflict because it felt uncomfortable, hoping issues would resolve on their own. They didn’t. Facing these head-on was hard, but it built trust and improved team dynamics.

Tip: Address issues early and calmly. Listen first, then propose solutions.

4. Failing to Communicate Vision

Why stop: A team without direction wastes time and energy.

I once led a big project without clearly communicating the vision. Everyone was lost, and the results were a mess. Once I clarified the “why” behind our goals, everything clicked into place.

Tip: Reiterate your vision regularly. Make sure your team knows how their work fits into the bigger picture.

5. Overloading with Change

Why stop: Too much change too quickly causes burnout and resistance.

I’ve definitely overwhelmed my team by trying to implement too many changes at once. It left them feeling exhausted and unmotivated.

Tip: Prioritize changes and roll them out gradually. Give your team time to adapt.

6. Ignoring Feedback

Why stop: Dismissing feedback isolates your team and limits growth.

There were times I brushed off feedback, assuming I knew best. But when I finally listened, I realized how much valuable insight I was missing.

Tip: Actively seek out feedback and take it seriously. Even small changes based on input can have a huge impact.

7. Maintaining Status Quo

Why stop: Holding onto the old way of doing things blocks growth.

I used to resist updating our processes, thinking the old methods were “good enough.” Once I saw how far behind we were falling, I knew change was overdue.

Tip: Regularly assess what’s working—and what isn’t. Encourage your team to challenge the norm.

8. Failing to Recognize Efforts

Why stop: Lack of recognition demotivates your team.

For a long time, I didn’t realize how much recognition mattered. My team was doing great work, but I never acknowledged it. When I started recognizing their efforts, morale and productivity improved dramatically.

Tip: Celebrate both small and big wins. Show your team you see and value their hard work.

9. Neglecting Personal Development

Why stop: If you’re not growing, you’re falling behind.

There was a time when I stopped learning, thinking I had enough experience. But as new challenges emerged, I realized how unprepared I was.

Tip: Commit to ongoing learning. Whether through courses or mentorship, stay updated and adaptable.

10. Creating a Fear-Based Culture

Why stop: Fear stifles creativity and innovation.

In the past, I blistered mistakes, thinking it would prevent them. Instead, it made my team afraid to take risks. When I shifted to a more supportive approach, they felt safe to innovate and share ideas.

Tip: Foster a culture where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities, not failures.

Leadership isn’t about being perfect. I’ve stumbled plenty of times, and I’m still learning. What matters is recognizing these behaviors and actively working to change them. Want to improve your leadership? Start with one habit and go from there. If you need support, feel free to reach out—I’m happy to share what I’ve learned (and the mistakes I’ve made) along the way!

We can help accompany you and your team leaders in developing these skills and behaviours. If you want to know more, don’t hesitate to contact us!