Patti Cotton

Executive Coach & Career Strategist

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Business Leader: Are You Socially Isolated?

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Business Leader: Are You Socially Isolated?
Image Credit: Depositphotos

In today’s fast-paced, hyper-connected world, it’s paradoxical yet increasingly common for business leaders to experience social isolation. This phenomenon, exacerbated by the rise of remote work and digital communication, poses a significant threat to their professional effectiveness. As business leaders, we often overlook the subtle but profound impact that social isolation can have on our decision-making, innovation, team dynamics, and overall leadership capabilities.

Marc’s Story

Marc, a seasoned CEO in the manufacturing industry, reached out to me for help. Pre-pandemic, Marc thrived on face-to-face interactions, drawing energy and ideas from his bustling office environment and frequent industry conferences. However, as remote and hybrid work became the norm, Marc found himself increasingly isolated. The casual hallway chats and spontaneous brainstorming sessions that once fueled his creativity were replaced by sterile Zoom meetings and endless email chains.

The psychological toll was swift and severe. Marc began experiencing heightened levels of stress and anxiety, which, in turn, impaired his ability to make sound decisions. This aligned with the studies that show that social isolation can lead to depression and cognitive decline, further aggravating these issues. For Marc, the lack of emotional support and camaraderie led to a decline in his mental health, affecting his performance and decision-making abilities.

When Marc reached out to me, he complained of post-pandemic brain fog. He was noticing a lack of clarity around thinking and decision-making. He was anxious and complained of severe stress. What we uncovered as we began our work together was that Marc had isolated himself socially over time in this new hybrid world. This caused significant damage, as he unwittingly cut off the rich and dynamic input his team and peers could provide. This meant that he had limited or no access to diverse perspectives and feedback, crucial elements for informed decision-making and fostering innovation. Without this, his decisions became increasingly insular and less effective. Innovation, once a hallmark of his leadership, began to stagnate.

In a collaborative setting, diverse viewpoints spark creativity and drive innovative solutions. Isolated leaders like Marc miss out on these critical interactions, leading to a decline in their ability to innovate and adapt to changing market conditions. The consequences for the organization can be severe, with missed opportunities and a lack of competitive edge.

Marc’s isolation didn’t just affect him; it impacted his team and permeated throughout the entire company. Strong relationships and trust are the bedrock of effective teams. As Marc and I worked on a plan to turn this around, his team was eager to share their growing detachment and the perceived lack of value they brought to the table. This was also affecting their ability to support morale and engagement within their own teams – a recipe for increasing turnover and a deterioration of organizational performance.

The once vibrant and collaborative culture of Marc’s company had begun to erode, impacting the bottom line. In short, the entire company had been adversely affected by one man.

It is important to note that Marc’s isolation also created strategic vulnerabilities for him. He neglected networking and building relationships with industry peers that were crucial for staying abreast of market trends and competitive intelligence. Without these insights, Marc struggled to make strategic decisions that would position his company for growth. Opportunities for partnerships and collaborations were missed, further hampering the company’s ability to compete and innovate.

In sum, Marc had diminished his credibility and influence within his organization and the broader industry. A leader perceived as disconnected may struggle to inspire and motivate their team. Furthermore, without strong social connections, Marc lacked the advocates and supporters needed to champion his vision and initiatives effectively.

I was heartened that Marc reached out when he did. Social interactions play a critical role in the learning and development process for all leaders, providing feedback and diverse perspectives that drive improvement. For Marc, isolation meant a lack of exposure to new ideas and constructive criticism, leading to stagnant growth.

Proactive Steps to Combat Social Isolation

The good news is that leaders like Marc can take proactive steps to combat social isolation. We integrated the following strategies in addition to team and cultural strengthening:

  1. Prioritize Regular Social Interactions: Make time for face-to-face meetings, even if virtual, and engage in meaningful conversations with your team and peers.
  2. Seek Mentorship and Peer Support: Build relationships with mentors and peers who can provide guidance, support, and diverse perspectives.
  3. Encourage Open Communication: Foster a culture of open communication and collaboration within your team.
  4. Engage in Industry Events: Participate in industry conferences, webinars, and networking events to stay connected with the broader community.

For Marc, implementing these strategies led to a gradual but significant improvement in his professional effectiveness. Although we captured some quick wins, turning around the minds and hearts of many took a good 18 months. During this time, he reinforced trust and appreciation with his team, rekindled his passion for innovation, and rebuilt his strategic networks.

Social isolation is a silent but formidable adversary for business leaders. It undermines decision-making, stifles innovation, weakens team dynamics, and creates strategic vulnerabilities. I invite you to reflect on your own social connections and identify areas where you may be experiencing isolation. Implement the strategies discussed to foster stronger connections and enhance your leadership effectiveness. Share your experiences and strategies for combating social isolation in leadership roles, and together, let’s build a more connected and effective leadership community.

© Patti Cotton and patticotton.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express written permission from the author is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that attribution is made to Patti Cotton and patticotton.com, with links thereto.

The Power of Self-Accountability: True Leadership Begins with the Person in the Mirror

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The Power of Self-Accountability: True Leadership Begins with the Person in the Mirror
Image Credit: Depositphotos

When it comes to leadership, there’s a lot of talk about accountability. You’ve probably heard it in meetings, seen it in performance reviews, and maybe even mentioned it yourself when discussing team dynamics. But let’s be honest—most of us view accountability through a very narrow lens. We think about how accountable others are to us. We analyze our team members, colleagues, and even our bosses, scrutinizing their actions and decisions.

Here’s the reality: true leadership doesn’t start with holding others accountable. It begins with holding yourself accountable.

The Mirror Test

Imagine this scenario: You’re a leader facing a major challenge. The project deadline is looming, and your team is behind schedule. The temptation is strong to point fingers, to find out who dropped the ball. But before you do that, stop and take a good, long look in the mirror. What do you see? Are you holding yourself accountable for the role you’ve played in this situation? Have you set clear expectations, provided the necessary support, and modeled the behavior you expect from your team?

Self-accountability is the foundation of effective leadership. It’s about being honest with yourself, owning your actions, and acknowledging your mistakes. It’s not easy, and it requires a level of humility that many leaders find uncomfortable. But it’s absolutely essential if you want to lead with integrity and earn the trust of your team.

The Perils of Passing the Buck

In today’s fast-paced business environment, it’s easy to get caught up in the blame game. When things go wrong, our first instinct is often to find someone to blame. Maybe it’s a team member who didn’t deliver on time, or a colleague who didn’t communicate effectively. But passing the buck is a dangerous habit that can quickly erode trust and undermine your leadership.

When leaders blame others, they create a culture of fear and defensiveness. Team members become more concerned with covering their tracks than with collaborating and innovating. Worse, the leader’s credibility takes a hit. People start to see you as someone who shirks responsibility and avoids difficult conversations. Over time, this erodes the trust that’s critical for any high-performing team.

But what if, instead of blaming others, you took ownership of the situation? What if you acknowledged your role in the problem and committed to finding a solution? This kind of self-accountability is not only refreshing—it’s empowering. It sets the tone for your team and shows them that you’re willing to do the hard work of leadership.

The Intersection of Honesty and Humility

Self-accountability is grounded in two key principles: honesty and humility. Honesty means being truthful with yourself about your strengths and weaknesses, your successes and failures. It’s about recognizing when you’ve made a mistake and being willing to admit it, even when it’s uncomfortable.

Humility, on the other hand, is about understanding that leadership isn’t about you—it’s about the people you serve. It’s about putting the needs of your team ahead of your own ego and being open to feedback, even when it’s critical. Together, honesty and humility create a powerful foundation for self-accountability.

But let’s be clear—this isn’t about self-flagellation or dwelling on your mistakes. It’s about learning from them and using those lessons to become a better leader. It’s about setting a standard of excellence for yourself and your team and holding yourself to that standard every day.

The Real Problem: Fear of Failure

One of the biggest obstacles to self-accountability is the fear of failure. As leaders, we’re often so focused on achieving success that we become paralyzed by the thought of making a mistake. We worry that admitting our failures will make us look weak or incompetent. But the truth is, everyone makes mistakes. What sets great leaders apart is their willingness to own those mistakes and learn from them.

When you hold yourself accountable, you’re not just admitting that you’re human—you’re also demonstrating resilience and a commitment to growth. You’re showing your team that it’s okay to make mistakes, as long as you’re willing to take responsibility and work to improve. This kind of leadership fosters a culture of trust and continuous improvement, where team members feel safe to take risks and innovate.

Solutions: Cultivating Self-Accountability

So, how can you cultivate self-accountability in your leadership? It starts with a few simple practices that you can incorporate into your daily routine.

  1. Regular Self-Reflection: Take time each day to reflect on your actions and decisions. Ask yourself, “What did I do well today? Where could I have done better? Did I hold myself to the standard I expect from others?” This simple practice can help you stay aligned with your values and identify areas for growth.
  2. Seek Feedback: Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback from your team, colleagues, and mentors. Listen to what they have to say, and be open to their perspectives. Remember, feedback is a gift—it’s an opportunity to learn and improve.
  3. Own Your Mistakes: When you make a mistake, admit it. Don’t make excuses or blame others. Instead, focus on what you can do to fix the problem and prevent it from happening again. This kind of ownership is a powerful way to build trust and credibility with your team.
  4. Model Accountability: Lead by example. Show your team what self-accountability looks like in action. When they see you taking responsibility for your actions, they’ll be more likely to do the same.

The Bottom Line

At the end of the day, self-accountability is the key to effective leadership. It’s about being honest with yourself, owning your actions, and striving to improve every day. It’s not always easy, but it’s the foundation on which trust, respect, and long-term success are built. So, the next time you’re faced with a challenge, don’t look to place the blame—look in the mirror. That’s where true leadership begins.

© Patti Cotton and patticotton.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express written permission from the author is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that attribution is made to Patti Cotton and patticotton.com, with links thereto.

Chesterton’s Fence: Why Change Is Not Always the Answer

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Chesterton’s Fence: Why Change Is Not Always the Answer
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As a business leader, it’s tempting to charge in, identify what looks like inefficiency, and implement changes to make your mark.

The impulse to prove yourself as a decisive and innovative leader often pushes you toward altering systems and structures right out of the gate. But what if, in your rush to change things, you’re actually dismantling something valuable—something you don’t yet fully understand?

That’s where Chesterton’s Fence comes in. It’s a concept every leader should consider before rushing to make changes. This principle, though seemingly simple, can save organizations from unnecessary upheaval and wasted effort. It encourages leaders to pause and ask the crucial question: Why is this here in the first place?

What is Chesterton’s Fence?

G.K. Chesterton, a British philosopher, once said, “Don’t ever take down a fence until you know the reason it was put up.”

This simple idea has profound implications for leadership. In essence, it means that before you change or eliminate something, you need to understand why it exists.

In business, Chesterton’s Fence represents the established processes, policies, and structures that might seem outdated or ineffective at first glance. But the problem is, leaders often fail to ask why these systems were put in place before dismantling them. This is a critical error.

The fence may be preventing problems you can’t see yet. It might be there for reasons tied to legal compliance, institutional knowledge, or operational efficiency. Only when you’ve fully grasped the original purpose can you wisely decide if it should stay or go. Otherwise, you might make things worse by pulling down something essential.

The Leadership Trap: The Impulse for Change

If you’re a leader, particularly a new one, the pressure to change things is enormous. You feel the need to make an impact, to modernize, optimize, and demonstrate your leadership. And while that impulse is understandable, it’s also dangerous.

Leaders often think, “If it isn’t new, it must not be good enough.” But not every existing process is broken. Not every policy is outdated. What’s worse, making changes too quickly without understanding the system can lead to unintended consequences.

Take a common scenario: a new leader walks into an organization and immediately restructures teams, implements new technologies, and overhauls company policies. Sure, they’ve made their mark, but have they made things better? Often, these changes lead to confusion, frustration, and even a drop in morale. Why? Because these leaders didn’t take the time to understand why things were the way they were before they decided to “fix” them.

Change isn’t inherently bad. In fact, in some cases, it’s essential. But change for change’s sake can destroy what’s working and replace it with something worse.

The Dangers of Impulsive Change

Here are a couple of examples that illustrate what happens when leaders jump into change without understanding the reasons behind existing structures.

Case Study 1: A Policy Change That Backfired

I worked with a company years ago that decided to scrap a long-standing policy because it seemed old-fashioned. On the surface, the policy appeared unnecessary and restrictive. But what the new leadership didn’t realize was that the policy protected the company from legal exposure. By removing it without understanding its purpose, the company exposed itself to costly legal risks and took a huge financial hit.

Case Study 2: A Team Restructure Gone Wrong

In another instance, I was called to work with a newly appointed executive who had decided to reorganize a well-functioning team to streamline operations. However, the team’s original structure was designed with specific interpersonal dynamics and skill sets in mind. The hasty restructure disrupted those dynamics, and the team’s productivity plummeted. What appeared to be inefficiency was actually the key to their success, and it took months to rebuild the lost synergy. Trust was lost, and we took some time in rebuilding it.

In both cases, the leaders acted with good intentions, but their failure to apply Chesterton’s Fence led to negative outcomes. By failing to understand the “fences” they were tearing down, they caused more problems than they solved.

Applying Chesterton’s Fence in Your Business

So, how do you apply Chesterton’s Fence as a business leader? How do you avoid the trap of changing things that don’t need to be changed?

Here are three practical steps:

  1. Investigate Before You Act

Before you make any change, ask yourself (and others) some basic questions: Why is this process or system in place? What problem was it originally designed to solve? Too often, leaders assume they know the answers without digging deeper. Your due diligence should prompt you to go beyond surface-level assumptions.

Take the time to talk to long-standing employees who have insight into why certain policies or structures exist. Look at historical performance data—what do the numbers say? By understanding the purpose behind the existing system, you’ll be better equipped to decide whether it’s really broken.

  1. Identify What’s Working

As leaders, we tend to focus on fixing what’s broken. But sometimes, the most important question to ask is: What’s already working? There may be processes, teams, or systems in your organization that are performing better than you realize.

Resist the urge to assume that newer is always better. Yes, innovation is important, but it’s not a virtue in and of itself. There’s real value in preserving the things that are effective. The grass isn’t always greener on the other side; sometimes, it’s greener right where you are.

  1. Make Incremental, Informed Changes

Once you’ve done your homework, consider making changes incrementally. Instead of tearing down the fence altogether, start by adjusting one section of it. Test new ideas in one department before rolling them out company-wide. Small, informed adjustments allow you to assess the impact without creating unnecessary disruption.

Pilot programs and incremental changes are a great way to innovate while respecting the structures that have served your organization well. It gives you the chance to correct course if things don’t go as planned.

When Change is Necessary

Of course, there are times when change is essential. Some processes are clearly outdated, some technologies truly need to be updated, and some systems are obviously inefficient. In those cases, by all means, take the fence down. But even then, do it thoughtfully, with a clear understanding of what you’re replacing and why.

Balance is key here. As a leader, you need to discern between necessary evolution and impulsive change. When you change, root it in data and a clear understanding of the organization’s current state.

Conclusion: Change Isn’t Always the Answer

Chesterton’s Fence offers business leaders a powerful lesson: before you change anything, understand why it exists. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is nothing at all—especially if the existing structures are working better than you realize. Effective leadership isn’t about changing everything you touch; it’s about making the right changes, at the right time, for the right reasons.

The next time you feel the urge to tear down a “fence,” take a moment to ask yourself why it was put there in the first place. You might be surprised at what you discover.

© Patti Cotton and patticotton.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express written permission from the author is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that attribution is made to Patti Cotton and patticotton.com, with links thereto.

Making Tough Decisions: Why You Need to Build a Strong Business Case

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Making Tough Decisions: Why You Need to Build a Strong Business Case
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In the world of leadership, tough decisions are inevitable. Yet, it’s not just the decision itself that matters; it’s how you communicate and justify that decision to your team.

The true measure of leadership often comes down to how well a leader can rally their team around a shared vision, especially when the choices are difficult. A well-constructed business case isn’t just a formality; it’s a powerful tool that can make the difference between a unified, motivated team and one that is confused, resistant, or disengaged.

To do this, making a strong business case for each of your decisions is vital.

As you read, ask yourself where you congratulate yourself (where you do well), and where you can do better. It will make a significant difference in your team’s alignment and support.

Clarity: The Foundation of Effective Decision-Making

How clear are you with others about what the problem is and why it needs to be addressed?

Imagine a CEO who needs to cut costs by reducing the workforce. It’s a painful decision that impacts lives, yet it’s necessary for the company’s survival. The first step this leader must take is to ensure clarity. A well-crafted business case will clearly define the problem—perhaps dwindling profits or market shifts—and outline the objectives, such as maintaining the company’s long-term viability.

When a leader provides this level of clarity, it aligns the team’s understanding with the leader’s vision. Everyone knows why the decision is being made and what the desired outcomes are. Without this clarity, confusion spreads like wildfire. Team members may misinterpret the decision, leading to misaligned efforts, wasted resources, and a breakdown in trust.

Conversely, you may have known a CEO that has announced layoffs with little explanation. Employees are left in the dark, wondering why some jobs were cut and not others. The lack of clarity breeds fear, rumors, and a sense of injustice—none of which contribute to a productive workplace.

Evidence: Building Credibility Through Facts

Do you have all the facts you need to make a sound decision?

Imagine your company has decided to enter a new market. The decision is bold, risky even, but necessary for growth. A strong business case in this situation would include detailed market analysis, financial projections, and competitive research. This evidence doesn’t just justify the decision; it demonstrates that you have done your homework, considered all angles, and made an informed choice.

When a decision is supported by solid evidence, it builds confidence among the team. They see that you aren’t making a blind leap but is basing the decision on data and thorough analysis. This level of transparency is crucial for maintaining trust.

But what happens when the evidence is lacking? Suppose you decide to enter the new market without proper research, relying instead on gut feeling or anecdotal evidence (I’m hard-pressed to think you would, but just go with me, here!). Your team will quickly sense the lack of rigor. Questions will arise: “Is this really the best move? What if it fails?” Doubts will begin to undermine your credibility, and the team’s trust in you will begin to erode.

Risk Management: Preparing for the Unknown

One area some leaders tend to overlook is to identify the potential risks and impact related to each possible solution.

Every tough decision comes with risks. Leaders who acknowledge these risks upfront and include mitigation strategies in their business case show a level of foresight that earns respect. It’s one thing to say, “We’re cutting costs by reducing staff,” but it’s another to add, “We’ve identified key areas that will remain fully staffed to ensure continued operations, and we have a plan to support those who are laid off.”

Ignoring risks is a recipe for disaster. When a leader glosses over potential downsides, the team is left unprepared for challenges that arise. Take the example of a company deciding to outsource a critical function. If the risks—such as quality control issues or delays—are not addressed in the business case, the team may be blindsided when these problems occur, leading to crisis management rather than proactive solutions.

Strategic Alignment: Connecting the Dots

Does your decision align with the company’s strategic goals?

For a decision to resonate with the team, it must be clearly linked to the company’s broader strategic goals. A robust business case doesn’t just justify the decision; it connects it to the company’s mission and long-term vision.

Consider a leader who decides to invest heavily in technology to automate processes. A strong business case would demonstrate how this investment supports the company’s goal of becoming more efficient and competitive in the market. It shows that the decision is not just about saving money or keeping up with trends but is a strategic move aligned with the company’s future.

Without this strategic alignment, decisions can feel disconnected from the bigger picture. Team members might wonder, “Why are we focusing on this now?” If they can’t see how their work contributes to the company’s success, motivation dwindles, and the decision may feel purposeless.

Addressing Concerns: Building Trust Through Dialogue

Are you allowing space for the team to weigh in and express concerns?

One of the most overlooked aspects of decision-making is addressing team concerns. When leaders take the time to listen to feedback and incorporate it into their business case, they show that they value their team’s input. This not only builds trust but also fosters a sense of ownership among team members.

Imagine a leader deciding to restructure the organization. By proactively engaging with employees, addressing their concerns, and explaining how the restructure aligns with the company’s goals, the leader can turn potential resistance into support.

On the flip side, neglecting these concerns can backfire. If a leader pushes through a decision without seeking input or acknowledging fears, the team may feel alienated. Resentment builds, and the decision, no matter how sound, may be met with passive or active resistance.

Implementation: Turning Plans into Action

Sound execution is key.

Even the best business case can fail without a clear implementation plan. This includes timelines, milestones, and accountability. A leader who outlines the steps for execution and regularly checks in on progress ensures that the decision moves from concept to reality.

Consider a leader who has made the decision to launch a new product. A solid business case will include a detailed rollout plan, assigning responsibilities and setting deadlines. Regular follow-ups ensure that the team stays on track and can make adjustments as needed.

Without this, even the most well-intentioned decisions can flounder. Ambiguity leads to delays, missed targets, and frustration. The lack of follow-through erodes confidence in leadership and undermines the decision itself.

The Cost of Neglecting the Process

When leaders skip or rush through the process of building a strong business case, the consequences can be severe:

  • Decreased Trust and Morale: Lack of clarity, evidence, and engagement can erode trust and lower team morale. When decisions seem arbitrary or poorly justified, team members may become disengaged and demotivated.
  • Increased Resistance: Without addressing concerns and providing a compelling business case, team members are more likely to resist the decision. This resistance can manifest in reduced cooperation, lower productivity, and even open conflict.
  • Ineffective Execution: A weak or poorly communicated business case often leads to ineffective implementation. Ambiguity and lack of direction can result in missed deadlines, subpar performance, and wasted resources.
  • Long-Term Damage: Over time, failing to present a strong business case can damage leadership credibility and organizational culture. Teams may become skeptical of future decisions and question the leader’s ability to guide the organization effectively.

Making tough decisions is a fundamental part of leadership, but the process doesn’t end with the decision itself. Crafting and presenting a strong business case—one that is clear, evidence-based, strategically aligned, and responsive to team concerns—ensures that your decisions are not just made but embraced and executed effectively. By investing the time and effort to build a compelling business case, you can turn even the most challenging decisions into opportunities for growth, unity, and long-term success.

© Patti Cotton and patticotton.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express written permission from the author is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that attribution is made to Patti Cotton and patticotton.com, with links thereto.

Redefining Success: Aligning Your Leadership Role with Personal Fulfillment

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Redefining Success: Aligning Your Leadership Role with Personal Fulfillment
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It’s been a rough four years. No matter where you stand with the events of today’s world, we have experienced unprecedented challenges.

And it has taken its toll.

More business leaders are leaving their roles than at any other time in our lifetime (McKinsey, Forbes). And that echoes the sentiment I am hearing from so many of you. It’s no longer enough for you to weather the proverbial storms in order to reach organizational goals. It’s not enough to persevere in hiring and retaining the right talent to do the job. It’s not enough to feel as though you averted another crisis, completed another long day, and made it through yet another challenge.

On a scale of 1-5, how fulfilled are you as a leader? In your work? Your life?

Perhaps it is time to redefine success.

In the past, success has often been defined by career achievements. But over the last four years, as we have faced unmatched crises and a new and seemingly foreign business landscape, this definition has fallen short. Business leaders are asking for more…not more money, not more opportunities, but for more personal fulfillment. They seek more ease in leading – and more of a personal reward for filling those big shoes.

The fact is, personal fulfillment doesn’t come from occasional exotic trips or long weekends to regroup and re-energize. True fulfillment encompasses both professional and personal aspects of life.

It doesn’t have to be this hard.

And lest you think that this is soft stuff, allow me to make a business case for your personal fulfillment.

Some outcomes from leaders who embrace this include positive energy and motivation, role modeling, improved communication, better decision-making, increased resilience, more empathy and understanding, positive culture, and higher employee retention. The list is significant.

James, CEO and founder of a tech company, had lost his motivation and energy despite his company’s growth and success.

“There’s no excitement in leading anymore,” he shared. “We reach goals, or we don’t – and the alarming thing is, I’m beginning not to care.”

James claimed an overwhelming workload and a constant pressure to perform. But after exploring this in depth with him, the real issue became apparent: there was a lack of alignment between his professional achievements and his personal values.

Digging deeper, I discovered that James’ definition of success was narrowly focused on business metrics, without having defined first his vision of personal fulfillment.

Further, after conducting a comprehensive assessment, it was clear that James did not know how to tap into his top strengths for energy, and his approach conflicted with his top values – a recipe for burnout.

This called for a coaching intervention to help James develop a new definition of success incorporating personal happiness and wellbeing alongside professional achievements.

The Jumpstart

As so many of my clients appreciate, we met for an initial two-day jumpstart away from the office to fast-track the process. This was helpful in elevating James’ sense of hope, energy, clarity, and direction. It was necessary to define James’ values, personal mission and vision before moving on to the business.

This is a key factor that is often missed and, if not done well, can create chronic conflict in the leadership experience. We redefined James’ strengths, as he had taken multiple assessments over time, some of which were not reliable and others which were limited in scope (note to the reader: assessments are not apples and apples – beware!) During that initial two days, we also created a strategic plan to align his daily activities and long-term goals with his newly defined success criteria. This plan addressed both his business leadership and life.

The Deep Dive

With this as our GPS, we then coached over the next year. This is deep and transformational work, including shifting habits and approaches formed over years of time, reshaping the stories that James told himself to open up more potential, and removing roadblocks and triggers that had previously held him in place.

The Result

James’ enthusiasm and joy of leading was re-energized. This had a cascade effect on his executive team and on the company, since a leader’s influence is significant on culture and outcomes. Some of the results for his company included increased productivity, better work-life balance, improved team morale, and overall business growth.

What about you? What is your personal definition of success?

Does it include both career achievements and personal fulfillment? Are you aligned in your values and tapping into your top strengths daily as you lead?

© Patti Cotton and patticotton.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express written permission from the author is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that attribution is made to Patti Cotton and patticotton.com, with links thereto.