3 Things I’ve Learned from Staff-Led Leadership (So Far)
A couple of weeks ago, we discussed growing leadership from the inside out, how leadership, like a garden, requires patience, care, and the right environment to flourish.
Since then, I’ve been leaning into staff-led leadership more intentionally. It’s been both humbling and energizing, and I’ve already learned a few things that I think are worth sharing.
Here are three lessons that have stood out to me so far:
🌸 Lesson 1: Listening Changes Everything
When we slow down enough to truly listen to our staff, something shifts.
I’ve seen firsthand how a single moment of listening, with no agenda, no rush to respond, can open the door to trust. People share more honestly when they know their thoughts matter.
Listening isn’t passive. It’s active leadership. It tells your team, “I see you; I value you, and I want to understand what’s working, and what’s not.”
Try this: Open your next meeting with a straightforward question:
“What is one thing that would make your workday smoother?”
Then listen. Take notes. Thank them for sharing.
🌼 Lesson 2: Small Wins Build Big Momentum
I’ve learned that progress doesn’t have to come from significant, sweeping changes.
Sometimes the most powerful moments are the smallest ones: a shout-out in a staff meeting, a quick thank-you note, or a Joy Jar filling up with gratitude slips.
These small acts of recognition build energy and remind everyone that their efforts matter. When staff feel seen and celebrated, they bring more of their best selves to the table.
Try this: Before your next team meeting, write down one positive thing you’ve noticed about each person and share it aloud. Watch the smiles spread.
🌱Lesson 3: Leadership Isn’t About Control
This one has been the most powerful for me: leadership doesn’t mean having all the answers or steering every decision.
It’s about creating space for others to step into their own leadership, take ownership, share ideas, and help guide the team's direction.
When I loosen my grip and invite collaboration, I see creativity bloom. Staff take initiative, offer solutions, and surprise me in the best ways.
Try this: Ask one staff member to lead a portion of your next meeting, even just a quick activity or reflection. It shows trust and builds confidence.
🌟 Your Turn
As we move deeper into October, I encourage you to try one of these lessons with your own team and observe the results.
Listen deeply and thank them for sharing.
Celebrate small wins, no matter how small.
Create space, and watch others step in.
Because staff-led leadership isn’t about doing more, it’s about creating the conditions for growth.
And when those conditions are right, your team will thrive.
📥 Next Step
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8 Small Calm Rituals for Leaders
These tips are perfect for building calmness, connection, and focus, the foundation every leader needs to grow from the inside out.
Continue your reflection: The lessons of staff-led leadership mirror the growth found in the Six Orchid Stories — moments of calm, connection, and collective wisdom that shape how we lead together.
👉 Visit the Six Orchids on the Welcome Page
