4 Leadership Habits You Need to Build Right Now

Your performance as a leader isn't just about you—it’s about everyone who depends on you, too. Whether it's your team, your clients, or even your business’s future, your leadership plays a massive role.

Get this: Gallup research shows that poor leadership can cost companies billions. And leadership quality? It accounts for 70% of the differences in employee engagement scores. No pressure, right?

Being a top-notch leader is tough. And let's be real, it's way too easy to pick up bad habits because, well, you've probably seen a lot of mediocre (or downright toxic) leadership in action. The good news? You can break the cycle.

Great business leadership is all about mastering both hard and soft skills. Hard skills like financial management and project management are teachable, measurable, and essential.

But it’s the soft skills—things like empathy, emotional intelligence, and effective communication—that are the real game-changers. These are what keep your team fired up and working at their best, and what will set you heads and shoulders other leaders and manager.

So, what’s it going to take to sharpen those leadership skills? Here are four habits to build if you want to lead your team to success.

1. Listen Like It Matters—Because It Does

Active listening is a make-or-break habit. When you’re juggling a million things, it’s easy to rush through conversations. But if you’re not truly listening to your team, you’re missing out on valuable ideas, insights, and chances to make your business better.

And guess what? Your team will feel it. When they don’t feel heard, communication breaks down, and that’s a slippery slope. So, take a breath, give your full attention when someone’s talking, and show them you’re listening. Nods, follow-up questions, and even a quick summary of what they said can make a world of difference.

Listening isn’t just about hearing words; it’s about understanding the context, the emotions, and the needs behind those words. When your team knows you’re genuinely listening, they’re more likely to open up, share their best ideas, and feel valued. That’s when the magic happens.

2. Communicate Clearly and Often

Good leaders are great communicators, and that goes way beyond just getting your point across. Communication is about creating a connection, making sure your team is on the same page, and building trust. Whether you're leading a meeting, sending an email, or having a one-on-one conversation, your words matter. They set the tone for your team’s culture and can either inspire or deflate your crew.

But it’s not just about talking; it’s about making sure your message is crystal clear. Don’t assume people know what you mean—be explicit, especially when it comes to expectations and goals. Open, honest communication also means being transparent about challenges and setbacks.

When your team feels informed and involved, they’re more invested in the outcome. And don’t forget the power of feedback—both giving and receiving. It’s a two-way street that strengthens relationships and drives continuous improvement.

3. Master the Art of Delegation

One of the most crucial habits to nail down is delegation. Let's be honest—trying to do everything yourself? It’s a fast track to burnout. And worse, it sends a message to your team that you don’t trust them to get the job done. When you hold on to tasks because you’re afraid to let go, you end up wasting time, drowning in overwhelm, and stunting your team’s growth.

Here’s a hack: aim to make yourself dispensable. If your team or business can run smoothly without you for a bit, congratulations—you’ve mastered delegation.

Delegating isn’t just about offloading tasks; it’s about empowering your team to take ownership and grow. It shows that you trust them to deliver, which boosts their confidence and performance.

Start by identifying who on your team is best suited for each task, then give them the autonomy to make decisions and take responsibility. The more you delegate effectively, the more you’ll see your team step up and excel.

4. Manage Your Time Like a Pro

You can’t lead others if you can’t manage your own time. Time management is about more than just filling up your calendar; it’s about maximizing your productivity and staying focused on what really matters.

Want to get the most out of your day? Start by planning out your day the night before. This gives you a clear roadmap for what needs to be accomplished. Try time blocking—dedicating specific chunks of time to particular tasks without distractions. Carve out periods for deep focus, where you tackle the most critical tasks without interruptions—that means no emails, no phone calls, shut your door (if you have one), and make sure people don’t bug you!

And here’s a pro tip: tackle the hardest tasks first. When you get the big stuff out of the way early, the rest of your day feels like a breeze. Time management isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing what matters most, efficiently.

BONUS: Always Be Learning

Great leaders never stop learning. They’re always looking for ways to grow and build their skills. So, how do you keep leveling up?

• Seek Out Leadership Opportunities: Don’t wait for the perfect moment—create it. Whether it’s leading a new project or volunteering for a leadership role, take the reins.

• Get Feedback and Coaching: Ask your colleagues, mentors, or even your team for feedback. Coaching can be a game-changer in helping you see your blind spots and areas for growth.

• Reflect Regularly: Take time to think about your leadership style. What’s working? What’s not? Keep a journal, ask for feedback, and make adjustments as you go.