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      17 leadership myths I've had to unlearn

      I've been leading teams for 15+ years.

      And I've realized something disturbing:

      Many "leadership truths" I once believed are actually MYTHS.

      Here are 17 leadership myths I've had to unlearn:

      1. Great leaders have all the answers.

      Truth: The best leaders ask better questions & create space for others to solve problems.

      2. You must hide vulnerability to maintain authority.

      Truth: Showing appropriate vulnerability builds trust & connection.

      3. Leaders should never show emotion.

      Truth: Emotional intelligence includes expressing emotions authentically & appropriately.

      4. Feedback should always be sandwiched between compliments.

      Truth: Direct, compassionate feedback is more effective & respected.

      5. You need to micromanage to ensure quality.

      Truth: Clear expectations + trust = better results & happier teams.

      6. Leadership is about being in charge.

      Truth: It's about serving others & removing obstacles to their success.

      7. Great leaders are born, not made.

      Truth: Leadership is a skill that can be developed with intention & practice.

      8. You must be extroverted to lead effectively.

      Truth: Introverts bring valuable listening skills & thoughtful decision-making.

      9. Leaders should maintain professional distance.

      Truth: Genuine connection creates psychological safety & better outcomes.

      10. You should treat everyone exactly the same.

      Truth: Equity means giving each person what they uniquely need to succeed.

      11. Conflict should be avoided at all costs.

      Truth: Healthy conflict leads to better decisions & stronger relationships.

      12. The leader's ideas should take priority.

      Truth: The best ideas can come from anywhere in the organization.

      13. Leaders shouldn't admit mistakes.

      Truth: Owning mistakes builds credibility & models accountability.

      14. Work-life balance is the employee's responsibility.

      Truth: Leaders set the tone & create conditions for sustainable performance.

      15. Leadership is about position & title.

      Truth: True leadership is about influence, regardless of formal authority.

      16. You need to have all the technical expertise.

      Truth: You need to build diverse teams with complementary strengths.

      17. Once you're a leader, you've "made it."

      Truth: Leadership is a continuous journey of growth & learning.

      Which of these myths have you had to unlearn?

      What would you add to this list?

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