Why is taking ownership critical?

Why is taking Personal Responsibility critical in your leadership?

Leadership is a journey of evolution and another of the tools I encourage sharpening in your leadership kit is taking personal responsibility.          

As a leader, the way you embrace this concept can shape the culture of your business and your team in profound ways.

Here are 6 reasons why your ownership matters:-

1. Leading by ExampleYou are the standard-bearer of your organisation. When you consistently demonstrate personal responsibility, you set the tone for your team. This creates a ripple where they are more likely to take ownership of their tasks and decisions too.
2. Trust and CredibilityTaking personal responsibility builds trust and credibility. When you openly acknowledge and own your mistakes and shortcomings, your team trusts that you are honest and reliable. This trust is critical in building strong relationships and is the foundation of the positive work culture you build.
3. Problem Solving and Continuous ImprovementPersonal responsibility spreads a culture of exploration & creative problem-solving. It means that you empower challenges to be addressed head-on, which feeds into more innovation, a more courageous fail forward approach, and builds on the 'path of possibility' culture that I've previously discussed. One that looks for the learning from mistakes and grows through them.
4. Positive Feedback LoopA culture of personal responsibility creates a continuous and positive feedback loop. When you take ownership, you encourage your team members to do the same through your behaviour, reinforcing a culture of accountability and responsibility throughout the organisation.
5. Resilience and AdaptabilityEmbracing personal responsibility elevates agility and adaptability.  Both of which are critical given the pace at which the world is spinning and work is done. By taking ownership of challenges and adopting an open-minded approach to resolution you demonstrate adaptability, which inspires your team to do the same in the face of change.
6. Employee Engagement and SatisfactionA culture of personal responsibility can game change employee engagement and fulfilment. When team members see you and other leaders taking ownership and being honest and supportive, they become more engaged and satisfied, fostering a greater sense of safety, purpose and belonging.

In conclusion, personal responsibility is a cornerstone of a healthy organisational culture. Leaders who embrace it set the stage for a team that values accountability, trust, problem-solving, and adaptability. This culture leads to a more resilient and successful organisation, ensuring the journey of leadership is a rewarding one for everyone involved.

Leigh Howes is an Executive Coach & Leadership Consultant partnering and working with Founders, CEO's and Senior Leaders. She is passionate about growing the true potential & human element in leadership. With a passion towards elevating how leaders lead, communicate and think to achieve higher and happier levels of performance & impact.

For more information on how Leigh could help you or your leadership team, please contact hello@leighhowes.com.