Leading with Paradox
As this year draws to a close, I’ve been thinking about the leaders and leadership teams I’ve had the privilege to work with and learn from this year.
I’ve pondered on what it is that truly distinguishes those leaders and teams who consistently lead with greater fulfilment and impact.
What I’ve recognised is this leaders and teams who stand out have developed the capacity to lead with paradox.
Rather than be identified by distinguishable attributes, they’ve developed the capacity to embody and move between seemingly contradictory attributes that are both true and needed.
They move fluidly and intentionally across four paradoxes:
1. Determined and humble
Their conviction and tenacity to pursue outcomes is unmistakable. They are clear on what matters and stay the course and at the same time, they are genuinely humble. They know their limits. They ask for help. They draw on the strengths, experience and insights of others. Their humility amplifies, rather than diminishes their determination.
2. Intuitive and considerate
They trust their instincts. They’re prepared to back their judgement and move. Yet, they don’t treat intuition as infallible. They invite others’ perspectives to inform their instincts. They listen, test, refine and then decide, not by consensus, but with consideration.
3. Curious and decisive
They are deeply curious. They lean into learning with and from others. They let their own thinking be challenged and refined. And then they decide. They’re willing to make calls knowing not everyone will agree. Because others feel heard, seen and understood, they’re more prepared to commit to decisions they may not have made themselves.
4. Engaging and candid
They connect in a way that leaves others feeling legitimate, valued and appreciated. People feel safe around them. At the same time, they do not step around difficult conversations. They see it as a responsibility to speak their truth and leave nothing important, unsaid. Their intentions are clear and unarguable: to serve the goal, the team and the person in front of them.
INVITATION
I invite you to pause and reflect:
Where are you already leading with paradox?
Where might you be weighted to one side – determined without humility, decisive without curiosity, instinctive without consideration or candid without connection?
What greater impact could you have by more fully embracing these paradoxes?
Make 2026 the year you intentionally invest in your leadership and your team’s growth and greatness, not because you need to but because you deserve to.
As leaders, to enable others to become more of their best, we first need to become more of our best. Putting yourself first is not an act of selfishness; it’s an act of service. It’s how you create the capacity to lead with paradox and have greater impact.
If this resonates, let’s schedule a conversation and explore:
What does success look like for you in 2026 and beyond.
How could you and your team lead with greater fulfilment and impact.
Finally, I wish you and your family the most peaceful and enjoyable break and my hope is 2026 brings you all you wish for, and above all, good health and happiness.
May you flourish.