Busting Leadership Myths: You are Ready to Lead!

Do you feel you are not brave enough, qualified enough, ready enough to lead confidently and authentically? 

Let me tell you a secret... You are ready to lead, NOW.

Myth 1

Leaders are men, in suits

Well, I think that Jacinda, Kamala and a bunch of other awesome women have blown that myth out of the water lately. When we only see men in power OR when the women we see are acting in a way that feels aggressive or masculine, then it is really easy to believe that you need to have balls to be a leader.

Research is clear that effective leaders demonstrate a balance between the traditionally masculine traits, like decisive and strategic, with the more feminine traits of collaboration, empathy and patient.

Fact: You have absolutely the right gender to be a leader.

Myth 2

Leaders are Confident

Let’s face it, confidence certainly helps leaders to influence others, to get things done, navigate change and well… lead. But are all leaders confident all of the time? No. Do leaders have moments of doubt and hesitation? You betcha they do. What they don’t do is let their thoughts get in the way of actions. Here’s what leaders know about confidence; is not a permanent state; it can be learnt; it can be dialled up when needed AND having confidence is not the same as being an arsehole.

Fact: Your confidence will build steadily as you lean into leadership and take action.

Myth 3

Leaders are Extroverts

Leadership isn’t an adjective. You don’t need to be extroverted or charismatic to practise leadership. And those with charisma don’t automatically lead. Good leaders influence others and you can do this just as effectively by listening, being humble and being of service to your staff. Many organisations have walked off a cliff following a charismatic leader whilst on the other hand, many organisations have thrived under a reflective, analytical or thoughtful one.

Fact: There is no single leadership style that is more effective. You know you. You do you.

Myth 4

Leaders are Old

When we see lots of older white folks in suits leading companies, governments or schools, it’s easy to believe that this is the norm. However, leadership isn’t a title, it’s a way of being. So, if you have the desire to influence and empower people to meet shared goals, then you are a leader. No one would deny the influence of Greta Thunberg or Mahalia ?? and they were barely in their teens when they began to lead. Or then again you may have a lifetime of experience but think you are too old to start your leadership journey – baloney. Even at 60 you still have a good at least 5 years of opportunities to lead and make a difference in you.

Fact: The only right age to be a leader is now.

"A leader is anyone who takes responsibility for finding the potential in people and processes, and who has the courage to develop that potenital."

- Brene Brown

Myth 5

Leaders are Bullies

Yep – they definitely can be. Some leaders use their position to wield power over the people they lead. While this can be very effective in making their subjects comply with rules, procedures and policies, it has been shown to stifle creativity, engagement and commitment. Good leaders don’t armour up each morning, instead they use power with and between people to meet goals. They actively build trust and relationships knowing that valued employees give more – more time, more effort – going above and beyond.

Fact: Stay open and curious with your ego in a box and you will never be a bully – besides you like people too much to let that happen.

Myth 6

Leaders are Experts

Are leaders knowledgeable? Sure. Are they the best teacher/engineer/nurse or basketballer? No. When you step into leadership, your role is no longer to teach that class or build that bridge, your responsibility is to support, empower and influence others to do those things. Leaders need to be knowledgeable about people. They know how to build a trusting culture which enables individuals to grow, develop and be accountable for meeting their targets. I reckon you already have a bucket load of these people skills.

Fact: If you are the smartest person in the room, you are in the wrong room. Leaders surround themselves with experts.

Myth 7

Leaders are Highly Qualified

True many are extremely well qualified but they didn’t start that way - many sought that extra training and qualifications after becoming a leader. In the same way, it is not possible to master golf by reading a book or watching videos – leadership is a practice. You have to give it a go, work with mentors and coaches to analyse and perfect your game and then enrol in high-level training when you know what you need to work on.

Fact: You have what you need to begin. Thinking you are underqualified is fear and it is getting in your way of starting!

You can download a free printable PDF of these Mythbusters here: Download Now

Are you a new, aspiring or reluctant leader?

Do you feel you are not brave enough, qualified enough, ready enough to lead confidently and authentically?

I assure you, you are enough, more than enough. Let me show you how to harness your natural style, apply your unique skills and strengths, dial-up your confidence and be the leader you deserve to be.

Book a complimentary discovery call here or get on the waitlist for the next intake of Launch into Leadership – our 8-week online course designed for new and aspiring leaders.