So, you’ve taken on your first leadership role! As you navigate this exciting step, it's common for first-time leaders to find themselves caught between the familiar comfort of "doing" and the expansive demands of "leading." Transitioning from a do-er to a leader can be a challenging shift, one that often requires a shift in mindset and approach. Many emerging leaders find themselves struggling to find time for new leadership responsibilities because they are still entrenched in old patterns. If you’re finding yourself to be frequently overwhelmed, it might be time to assess whether this concept might apply to you.
Here are some signs you're stuck in "do-er" mode, along with some questions to consider:
Do you often feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of tasks, yet struggle to see significant progress in your team's overall goals? As a leader, your role is to serve your team and organization. Reflect on whether your actions are solely benefiting you or if they are contributing to the growth and success of your team members.
Are you finding it hard to delegate tasks, instead preferring to handle everything yourself to ensure it's done "right"? Effective leadership involves letting go of the need to control every detail. Ask yourself if you are empowering others by delegating tasks and trusting them to excel.
Are you constantly caught up in the day-to-day operations, without stepping back to think about the bigger picture and long-term goals? Stand back to assess where you are directing your energy. Are you caught up in the minutiae of daily tasks, or are you actively working towards the strategic vision of your team?
Do you find that your team members are not growing as much as they could be, perhaps because you're not investing enough time in coaching and mentorship? Your success as a leader is intricately linked to the development of your team members. Consider how you are nurturing their skills, providing feedback, and creating opportunities for growth.
Are you hesitant to embrace new ideas or ways of doing things, sticking to what has always worked for you in the past? Leadership thrives on innovation and adaptability. Evaluate whether you are open to new perspectives, willing to learn from others, and ready to embrace change.
Effective tips to help you Make the Shift from “do-er” to leader
Embrace Delegation
Recognize that you cannot do everything yourself. Delegate tasks based on team members' strengths and trust them to deliver results. This not only frees up your time but also fosters a sense of ownership and growth among your team.
Strategic Focus
Set aside dedicated time to think strategically. Define clear goals for your team (with your team) and align their efforts towards achieving them. Regularly revisit these goals to ensure everyone stays on track.
Invest in Your Team
Prioritize the development of your team members. Offer guidance, coaching, feedback and time to help them reach their full potential. A strong, empowered team reflects effective leadership.
Seek Feedback and Learning
Actively seek feedback from your team, peers, and mentors. Be open to constructive criticism and use it as a tool to help guide your focus to improve your skills. Additionally, continue learning through books, workshops, and networking opportunities.
Lead by Example
Finally, remember that your actions speak louder than words. Demonstrate the qualities you wish to see in your team—such as resilience, adaptability, and a growth mindset. Think about your main discontent – and behave in a way that meets your expectations.
Transitioning from a do-er to a leader is a journey and it's okay to feel challenged or uncertain at times. Recognizing the signs is half the battle. By asking yourself the right questions and embracing the advice shared here - and then actually acting on it, you'll be well on your way to becoming a confident and impactful leader.
Wishing you success on your leadership journey!
If you are looking for a more customized leadership development experience, leadership coaching may be the better option to get you to your professional development goals faster. Book a complimentary “Discovery Call” to discuss your goals and see if working with a leadership coach might be the way to go.