In leadership, the path to success isn’t straightforward. It’s not about doing more of the same or following conventional advice. If you’re ready to step up and make a real impact, here are seven secrets that most people won’t teach you – because they’re too focused on keeping things comfortable. But you’re not here for comfort. You’re here for results. Here are seven powerful leadership secrets that will transform your approach and take you beyond the basics.
1. The Skills That Got You Here Won’t Get You Further
Your current success is the result of specific skills you’ve developed, but to break through to the next level, you need to evolve. This concept, commonly referred to as the “Peter Principle,” highlights how people often rise to the level of their incompetence if they don’t actively upgrade their abilities. To avoid stagnation, you must be willing to acquire new skills, take on unfamiliar challenges, and leave behind strategies that no longer serve you.
Example: Satya Nadella (Microsoft)
When Satya Nadella took over as CEO of Microsoft in 2014, the company was struggling to stay relevant. While Microsoft had dominated the personal computer era, Nadella knew that the same strategies that had made Microsoft successful under Bill Gates and Steve Ballmer wouldn’t work in the age of cloud computing and mobile technology. Under his leadership, Microsoft shifted focus to cloud services like Azure and Office 365. Nadella’s willingness to change direction and adopt new skills is a prime example of how evolving strategies can lead to success. Microsoft’s market value tripled during his tenure, illustrating the need for continuous growth and adaptation.
2. Upgrade Your Mindset – No One Else Can Do It For You
Your mindset is your most valuable asset as a leader. To lead others, you first need to lead yourself. This involves a mental “operating system” upgrade – shifting from tactical thinking to strategic foresight. Growth mindset theory, popularised by psychologist Carol Dweck, suggests that those who believe in their ability to grow and adapt are more likely to succeed. The only person who can reprogram your mind is you.
Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx, transformed her life by shifting her mindset after experiencing numerous rejections during her entrepreneurial journey. Blakely was taught from an early age to view failure as part of the path to success, thanks to her father who encouraged her to celebrate setbacks. This perspective allowed her to persevere despite having no background in fashion and facing rejection from investors and manufacturers. Blakely redefined failure, seeing it not as making mistakes but as not trying at all. This mindset empowered her to build Spanx into a billion-dollar brand. She attributes her success to embracing failure, which strengthened her resilience and determination.
3. “Active Listening” and “Clear Communication” Can Be Harmful
Although widely regarded as cornerstones of leadership, active listening and clear communication can sometimes be a double-edged sword. Over-reliance on these can slow decision-making and create an environment where feedback overwhelms action. Leaders need to listen with purpose, discern the important messages, and at times, communicate with brevity to maintain efficiency. These concepts, while essential, can sometimes be overemphasised, leading to decision-making delays and overwhelming teams with excessive feedback. As a leader, your goal is to drive action, which sometimes means prioritising clarity and direct communication.
Example: Elon Mus (X, Tesla, SpaceX)
Elon Musk has a unique leadership style that often challenges traditional norms. Rather than over-communicating, Musk believes in focusing on productivity and cutting out unnecessary discussions. At Tesla and SpaceX, he emphasises clear, goal-oriented communication to keep teams focused on innovation. His approach, while unconventional, has enabled both companies to push the boundaries of technology and stay ahead of the competition.
4. Offer the Illusion of Choice
Employees need to feel empowered, but giving too many options can lead to decision paralysis. The secret lies in offering controlled choices – letting people feel in charge while guiding them toward desired outcomes. This concept of “bounded autonomy” enables leaders to foster independence while ensuring that strategic goals remain on track. When employees feel they have a say, they are more engaged, even if their choices are subtly directed.
Steve Jobs had a way of making customers feel empowered, even when he tightly controlled Apple’s product offerings. For example, while competitors provided endless customisation options, Apple products offered limited choices—but were presented as the best possible solution. This illusion of choice made consumers feel in control, while Jobs directed them toward the outcome he wanted. It’s a masterful balance between autonomy and strategic guidance.
5. Stay Positive Amid Negativity
In times of crisis, staying positive is crucial. Research shows that optimism increases resilience and helps leaders navigate challenges more effectively. It’s not about ignoring problems but choosing to focus on solutions. Leadership author John C. Maxwell famously said, “Positive thinking doesn’t guarantee success, but negative thinking guarantees failure.” The ability to stay positive, even when surrounded by negativity, sets great leaders apart.
Example: Howard Schultz (Starbucks)
Howard Schultz exemplified how optimism can turn a company around. When he returned to Starbucks in 2008, the company was struggling, and the economy was in decline. Rather than giving in to the negativity, Schultz remained focused on the long-term vision. He made tough decisions, like closing underperforming stores, but always maintained a positive outlook, which eventually led to Starbucks’ resurgence as a global powerhouse.
6. Create Your Own Opportunities – Make Your Own Luck
Successful leaders don’t wait for opportunities to come knocking – they create their own luck. Studies by business strategists show that individuals who actively network and seek out connections are more likely to encounter opportunities. As a leader, being proactive is key. From fostering key relationships to staying informed about industry trends, you can engineer your own success by positioning yourself where opportunities are more likely to arise.
Example: Oprah Winfrey (Media Mogul)
Oprah Winfrey is a prime example of someone who created her own opportunities. She turned a local TV job into a global media empire by consistently putting herself in the right situations and building strong relationships. Oprah didn’t wait for opportunities to come to her; she sought them out and created them, showing how taking control of your own destiny leads to incredible success.
7. Build Authentic Confidence
True confidence isn’t about pretending to know everything. Instead, it’s about recognising your strengths, admitting your weaknesses, and trusting yourself to navigate through challenges. Authentic leadership—grounded in self-awareness and transparency—helps to build stronger trust within teams. By focusing on authentic confidence, you create an environment where both you and your team can thrive.
Example: Richard Branson (Virgin Group)
Richard Branson’s leadership style is all about authenticity. He is known for taking big risks, whether it was launching Virgin Atlantic to compete with established airlines or pioneering space tourism with Virgin Galactic. Branson’s confidence comes from embracing both his strengths and his failures, making him a trusted and admired leader. His approach to authentic confidence has helped him build a global brand based on trust and innovation.
These leadership secrets aren’t found in standard management courses because they require more than just learning the basics—they demand personal growth, self-awareness, and the courage to step outside your comfort zone. Are you ready to challenge conventional thinking and take your leadership skills to the next level? Awaken your full potential by exploring our Leadership Development Programmes, designed to empower leaders like you with the tools and mindset for lasting success.
