Define and own your leadership style to lead with confidence
I used to think leadership was something that came with a title, a milestone, or a seat at the table. But over time, I realized that leadership starts the moment you decide to show up with intention.
It’s never about waiting for permission. It’s about knowing who you are, what you stand for, and how you lead in every space you’re in.
Let’s define what your leadership style looks like, so you can step into it with clarity and confidence!
Step 1: Identify your natural leadership strengths
Every great leader I know leads differently. That’s the beauty of it! There’s no single way to do this.
I’ve found that when I understand what comes naturally to me, I stop trying to lead like someone else. I start owning my own way.
Ask yourself:
How do I naturally motivate or support others?
Am I someone who thrives on structure, vision, empathy, or momentum?
Who do I admire as a leader and why?
Once you know your tendencies, you can refine them. You don’t need to fit into a mold. You just need to trust what already makes YOU impactful.
Step 2: Define your leadership vision
Your leadership style is shaped by your values. Think of the things you protect, prioritize, and model every day. When you’re clear on what those values are, you lead with more alignment and less self-doubt.
I’ve found these questions to be a great place to start when you’re defining your own leadership vision:
What do I want people to feel when they work with me?
What impact do I want to make – in my team, my community, or my industry?
What do I care deeply about, and how do I want to express that through my leadership?
Write it down. Pin it up. Even if it’s just a sentence or a set of words. Let it be your compass. It is for me!
Step 3: Lead from where you are
You don’t need a title to lead. You don’t need a platform or a following. You just need the willingness to show up in a consistent and intentional way.
Some of the most powerful leadership I’ve witnessed has come from quiet, behind-the-scenes moments:
Offering mentorship to a colleague
Modeling boundaries and integrity
Speaking up with an idea when it matters
Being the steady voice in a challenging moment
Leadership is influence – and you already have that! Use it to build trust, move things forward, and create space for others.
Step 4: Stay open to growth & feedback
This one took me a while to fully embrace and it’s so important. Leading with confidence doesn’t mean having all the answers. It means staying open, adaptable, and willing to evolve.
Make room for feedback. Seek out people who will tell you the truth and cheer you on! Surround yourself with mentors, peers, and collaborators who reflect your growth back to you.
I’m learning to let go of the pressure to get it all right. Progress is enough. It always is!
My challenge to you
Your leadership style is uniquely yours. Own it with clarity. Refine it with intention. And lead from the place that feels most like you.
Ask yourself today:
How will I own my leadership style and what’s one way I can step into it more fully this week?
I’d love to hear what comes up. DM me on Instagram or LinkedIn and let’s keep the conversation going!
Lead the way,
