When You Know Better, You Do Better

Years ago, I was the lead on a committee with a clear directive. I had laid out a focused agenda, and we were making strong progress. Then, unexpectedly, I had a family emergency that pulled me away for three weeks.

When I returned, I was shocked. The committee had taken a very different direction. The committee had gone in a direction I really did not agree with, not because it was wrong, but because it wasn’t the direction I had envisioned. But here’s the thing… they weren’t off course from our stated objectives. They were just off course from "my plan". And in that moment, I had a choice:

1. Take control—undo their work and force the committee back to my original vision.

2. Self-regulate—recognize their progress, empower their ideas, and support their direction.

   
   

Thankfully, I chose the latter. My saving grace? A simple mantra I repeated to myself: "Just because it’s not MY brilliance doesn’t mean it is NOT brilliant." This experience taught me a few key lessons:

• History matters. If we don’t understand the "why" behind past decisions, we risk repeating mistakes that could have been avoided. Honoring past experiences, including those that differ from our own, helps us make informed choices.

• Innovation comes from diverse perspectives. The best solutions emerge when we challenge the status quo. When we make space for different voices, we gain insights we never would have found on our own.

• Listening IS leadership. True leadership isn’t about controlling the outcome—it’s about creating an environment where everyone's voice is heard and valued. Seek out perspectives that challenge your own. Ask for insights from people whose experiences differ from yours, and genuinely consider what they have to say.

Maya Angelou reminds us: "When we know better, we do better." As Self-Aware Leaders, our job isn’t just to lead others—it’s to elevate others. And that starts by valuing perspectives beyond our own.

As you reflect on your role as a leader, here are three ways you can strengthen your Self-Aware Leadership:

• Think about a time when you resisted an idea simply because it wasn’t your own. What would have happened if you had leaned into curiosity instead of control? Leadership isn’t about being right—it’s about doing better. How will you create space for new perspectives this week?

• The best ideas come when we step outside our own perspectives. This week, invite input from someone whose approach challenges yours. Ask questions. Really listen. What insights did you gain? Share your thoughts in the comments!

• Want to become a more Self-Aware Leader? Start by making space for different voices. This week, choose one way to elevate someone else's idea—whether at work, in your community, or in a conversation. Notice what happens when you lead with openness instead of attachment to being 'right'.

YOU MATTER!