Is Rigidity Limiting Your Growth as a Leader?

Letting Go To Grow...

For a long time, I believed I had the answers—not just for myself, but for everyone around me. I was certain that my way was the right way. At the time, it felt safe. It gave me a sense of control.

But looking back, that certainty came at a cost.

It cost me friendships.

It cost me respect.

It cost me closeness and belonging.

The turning point came when I finally realised that my map of life—my beliefs, experiences, and choices—was just that: my map. It may work for me, but it doesn’t automatically apply to anyone else. Others need the freedom to walk in their own shoes, carve their own paths, and create their own maps.

When I opened up to this truth, everything shifted. I began to question my own path.

I noticed that where rigidity showed up in one area of my life, it was also hiding in others. And that realisation became the gateway to deep self-discovery and growth.

As a leader, when we cling too tightly to how we think things should be, we risk missing:

Opportunities for growth and learning,

Innovation that comes from fresh perspectives,

Connections and trust with colleagues and our loved ones,

True collaboration and shared ownership,

The resilience to adapt when business and life change.

Rigidity can feel like strength; however, often it is a barrier that quietly limits our influence and stunts our growth.

How To Go From Rigidity to Growth

We can make that change with courage when we become consistent with some small changes. Every small step adds to the desired result. The actions to take are:

Listen - not to respond, to truly understand and acknowledge,

Ask great questions - the kind that spark reflection and possibility,

Celebrate achievements - shine a light on what others are doing well,

Empower - give people the confidence to stumble and grow within their space,

Replace criticism with appreciation - notice the good before the flaws.

These practices don’t just change how others experience us—they change how we experience ourselves.

We move from needing to control to being able to inspire.

We move from leading with rigidity to leading with influence and warmth.

A question I feel we all need to ask is simple, but powerful:

"How am I limiting my own growth by holding too tightly to my way?"

Every time I asked myself this question, I uncovered new layers of awareness.

I began to see how flexibility allowed me not only to grow personally but also to create environments where others felt safe, valued, and inspired to grow alongside me.

The true heart of leadership is not about walking ahead with all the answers.

It’s about walking beside others, creating space for their growth while continuing to evolve yourself.

When we let go of rigidity, we don’t lose strength—we gain influence, trust, and the ability to lead with authenticity.

If this blog resonates with you and you’re ready to create greater depth in your leadership, however you don't want to go it alone, take comfort in knowing I can support you, inspire you, and celebrate with you as we take the journey together.

Visit my website to learn more — I’d love to support you.

Together, we can strengthen the way you communicate, connect, and show up in your most important relationships.

Until next time, remember my favourite quote -

"Your Smile ... Your Responsibility - Own it, Wear it, Share it.