The history of leadership clings to outdated notions—dominating a room, commanding attention, or speaking so forcefully it pierces people’s listening. But what if effective leadership is less about convincing others to follow and more about bringing an authentic voice that invites genuine engagement? 

What is a bias toward action? It’s moving quickly on an idea with a recognition that there is never enough information to guarantee success. It’s making time for conversation and, when the time is right, declaring the conversation to be over. It’s leadership delegating authority to someone who will pull the lever and begin the work.

Leadership is about exercising power and influence, but not as force or domination. We increase our personal power by engaging authentically with others in the mission while exercising the authority we’ve been granted to improve outcomes. What allows some to lean in and make unpopular decisions?