As a leader, you set expectations for individuals and for your team. Therefore, you own execution.

What I have found to be true is that people buy into the leader first, before they buy into the vision or the mission. As we enter a new year, now may be a good time to assess how well you are equipping your people to execute.

Consider asking yourself:

  • Have I truly connected with them as individuals? Do I understand the challenges they may be facing and the opportunities they want to pursue?
  • When we meet, am I fully present? Am I really listening—without distractions?
  • Have I set them up for success with the right tools and resources?
  • Do I have a consistent cadence of accountability for performance?
  • Am I transparent and appropriately vulnerable with them?
  • Am I clear and consistent in my expectations?
  • Do I celebrate their successes and recognize their contributions?
  • Do I view my role as the Chief Encouragement Officer (CEO)?

These are just a few questions to spark reflection. You can add more as you take time to evaluate your leadership.

As leaders, we must periodically engage in honest self-examination of our habits and behaviors. If your people are truly your most important asset, then investing in their growth—and in the performance that follows—is essential and worthy of your time and effort.

Wishing you continued success as you equip your teams for stronger performance in 2026.