Sitting at my desk, I’m surrounded by a wealth of leadership wisdom—books stacked high, my phone buzzing with emails, articles, and podcasts all clamoring for attention. We’re truly inundated with insights on how to be an effective leader, and while it’s fantastic to have so much knowledge at our fingertips, it can also feel overwhelming. From Harvard Business to Google, Gallup to McKinsey & Company, countless reputable sources have poured years of research into demonstrating the undeniable connection between effective leadership, high-performing teams, and organizational success.
Although these sources use varied language, the core idea is clear: the experiences and environment created by leaders significantly influence engagement, satisfaction, and well-being—key factors for individuals and teams aiming to achieve their goals. So, with all this information available, how do we distill what truly makes a leader impactful?
Here’s the thing: how you lead matters as much as what you do. It’s easy to get caught up in strategies, KPIs, and objectives, but a leader’s true impact goes beyond the tactical. It’s about the emotional imprint you leave on those you lead. As Maya Angelou wisely said,
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Many leaders lose sight of this relational aspect because measurable outcomes feel more tangible. Yet, it’s in the small moments of empathy, active listening, and genuine appreciation that deep connections are formed. Effective leaders focus not only on results but also on cultivating positive relationships. When employees feel valued and respected, they’re more likely to excel. On the other hand, a leader who fosters fear or stress will ultimately face burnout and disengagement within their team.
So how can leaders create environments that promote engagement and productivity? It starts with being intentional about how you show up each day, recognizing that leadership is less about authority and more about influence. Great leadership strikes a balance between the being and the doing. While metrics and results are important, the feelings you evoke in others while pursuing those goals are what create lasting impact and define your legacy as a leader.
So how can you become more mindful of this balance? To increase your awareness of how you lead and its effect on your team, consider asking yourself the following questions:
How present and engaged am I with my team?
Do I lead with empathy, curiosity, and calmness, or am I often stressed and distracted?
Do I listen more than I speak?
When my team members come to me with concerns, ideas, or feedback, do I genuinely listen to understand, or do I listen to respond or rush to fix the problem?
Am I making space for diverse perspectives?
Do I create an environment where different ideas and viewpoints are valued, or do I unintentionally dominate conversations or dismiss thoughts and ideas?
Do I recognize and celebrate others' contributions?
How often do I express gratitude and acknowledge the efforts of my team in the ways they prefer? Am I intentional about celebrating small wins, not just major achievements?
In the end, leadership is a continuous journey of balancing being and doing. By being mindful of how you show up and engage, you can create lasting, meaningful connections with your team and reach your goals. As you reflect and take intentional steps on your journey, remember that your true impact as a leader isn’t just measured by results, but by how you make others feel along the way. Lead with intention, and you will create both relationships and results.