Remember the first time when you stepped into a leadership role?
One day you were the ‘go-to’ technical person - maybe even the guru - and then the next… you were leading a team of people. Yikes!
And did all the wisdom and skills from leadership heaven descend upon you in that moment?
If only. Ha!
You had to work really hard to develop those new ‘soft skills’, that we all know are the ‘hard skills!’.
The move from ‘me’ to manager is a massive leap - one that requires insight, emotional intelligence and the courage to have tough conversations early. Along with the ability to coach and engage others, and the servant-heart to lead without letting your ego get in the way.
But here’s what we often forget…
There’s another leap that’s just as critical: The shift from operational to strategic.
It’s the moment where we must evolve our thinking - from doing the now to shaping the future.
It’s a place where you're no longer just keeping up with change - you're now required to orchestrate it.
We need to not just survive - but to thrive.
This leap has always been important for leadership growth. But in today’s fast-paced, exponential world of change, the greatest challenge that we face is this question:
“Are we still relevant?”
Are the products and services that we offer still resonating with the people we serve?
Are they even needed?
And given this ‘relevance’ challenge, we then need to keep asking ourselves: Do we have the tools, the concepts, and the strategic mindset to truly innovate - to become fit for the future?
To do this, we must create the time, the space, and the headroom to think boldly, challenge past assumptions, and innovate beyond today’s problems.
Not firefighting. Not rescuing.
But facilitating - by lifting our eyes to the horizon.
And here’s the kicker - just like that first leadership leap, this shift doesn’t just happen by accident.
Strategic leadership requires deliberate practice, new tools, mental models, roadmaps - and above all, the discipline to step back from the noise.
The good news? If you are willing, then it’s entirely possible.
If you’re curious and open to learning new skills - even the ones that stretch you - this shift is certainly within reach.
So, maybe the real question is this:
Are you ready to quit the culture of busyness - and make the leap from operational to strategic?
Wishing you a wonderful week of reflection on where you are in your leadership trajectory - and what your next leap might be.
Richard Dore
Co-CEO - Director of Partnerships
Proteus Leadership
How To Stay Relevant Now And Into The Future
A leader’s level of performance is primarily driven by how prepared they are to grow personally and professionally, and most of this growth comes about as a result of the way they think.
This unique program is designed to provide leaders with the skills and opportunities to develop the way they think, and therefore perform more effectively as a leader.
Leading Innovation & Strategy is about assisting leaders and their teams to think in new ways, to challenge the status quo and to see a bigger and better picture for the future.
Over 4 x half-days expert Proteus facilitators will deliver 4 x virtual sessions exploring a range of topics, all focused on preparing leaders to better lead change, innovation and growth in their workplaces.
Take this opportunity to lead with innovation and strategy. Your future awaits!
Last 2025 multi-session virtual program:
Oct 16, 23, 30 & Nov 6, 13, 20
Topics:
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New Proteuslife 2025 Ed. 3
Does It Really Matter What People Think and Say About You?
