Be the Wind Beneath Wings, Not the Spit in the Eye

In leadership, a fundamental principle stands out: exceptional leaders elevate their teams, providing the lift needed to soar rather than dragging them down with criticism. They embody the idea of being the wind beneath someone’s wings, not the unwelcome spit in the eye.

Empowerment Versus Micromanagement: The Equation of Confidence

Feedback in leadership often devolves into rapid-fire queries like “What about this?” or “Why not that?” Yet true effectiveness lies not in scrutinizing in mere minutes the hours of deep immersion another has invested. Consider the basic equation: the individual embedded in the problem—engaging customers, synthesizing data, and exploring solutions—builds expertise through dedicated effort. This foundation of intimate knowledge deserves respect, not second-guessing.

Providing Context from the Outset: A Leader’s Duty

Leaders may possess unique vantage points, such as overarching strategies or market insights unknown to the team. This is precisely why proactive sharing is essential. Instead of ambushing with hindsight critiques like “You should have considered the broader plan,” leaders equip their teams early. They articulate key principles and context at the project’s inception, fostering alignment and informed decision-making from day one.

Guiding by Removing Barriers

Effective leaders honor this depth of investment by offering initial guidance and then stepping back. They inquire, “What support do you need to thrive?” rather than dissecting every detail. Their focus shifts to dismantling roadblocks, supplying resources, and championing progress, allowing the expert—the one who’s laid the groundwork—to steer the course.

Final Thoughts: Honoring Invested Effort Through Trust

Ultimately, leadership thrives on trust and straightforward logic: greater immersion in a challenge, combined with upfront context, amplifies a team’s capacity to innovate. By embracing this approach, leaders transform into that vital tailwind, propelling everyone toward collective success.