Leadership at the start of the year is like a pilot taking off. The initial ascent is critical, but ensuring a smooth flight requires ongoing course corrections. So imagine you are a pilot guiding your plane through the early stages of flight. The exhilaration of takeoff has passed, but the turbulence of mid-air adjustments is only beginning. Do you rely solely on the momentum from your initial ascent, or do you scan your instruments, recalibrate, and ensure everything aligns for a smooth journey?
“Great leadership doesn’t just happen in boardrooms; it is evident in the efficiency of your systems and workflows.”
Leadership at a time like this is no different. It is time to pause and assess whether the energy and strategies you began the year with are propelling you in the right direction or simply keeping you airborne. As the initial spark of the new year fades, many leaders settle into routines. However, this is precisely the moment to embrace a critical pause in what I call a “leadership audit.” This isn’t about finding fault; it is about ensuring alignment, clarity, and intent. After all, the trajectory you establish now will dictate the success of your team and organisation for months to come.
Before focusing outward, take a moment to look inward. The most effective leaders begin with self-assessment, grounding themselves in clarity and intent. Reflect on your approach by asking, “Am I leading with purpose, or merely reacting to demands?” It’s easy to be caught up in the whirlwind of responsibilities, but true leadership demands deliberate, thoughtful action. If you find yourself reacting more than strategising, it’s a clear signal to recalibrate.
Revisit the goals you set at the start of the year. Are they still aligned with your broader mission? Are you concentrating on high-impact initiatives, or are you spreading yourself too thin across competing priorities?
Begin each day with 15 minutes of reflective journaling. Write down your top three priorities and ensure they align with your long-term goals. This simple but powerful habit sharpens your focus and ensures you’re steering your leadership journey with purpose, not drifting aimlessly.
Your vision is only as effective as your team’s alignment with it. Now is the time to ensure that everyone is on the same page. Evaluate whether team members are meeting the expectations and benchmarks set earlier. Quick, informal check-ins can provide valuable insights into their progress and uncover areas needing attention. Misaligned roles lead to inefficiencies and frustration. Ask your team, Do you clearly understand your responsibilities and how they contribute to our overall goals? Clear communication here can make a significant difference.
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Host a “January Recap” meeting to reinforce alignment. Use this opportunity to celebrate wins, address any roadblocks, and reiterate key objectives. This approach not only boosts morale but also sets a strong foundation as you transition into February. This is the ideal time to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Great leadership doesn’t just happen in boardrooms; it is evident in the efficiency of your systems and workflows. Streamline your processes by identifying bottlenecks or inefficiencies that have cropped up during the month. Are there recurring issues slowing down productivity? Fix them now before they spiral.
Assess whether your team has the tools and support they need. Sometimes, small adjustments, like delegating tasks or investing in better software, can unlock significant improvements. Create a feedback loop. Ask team members for their insights on what’s working and what isn’t. Often, those closest to the action can identify solutions you might overlook.
Data and metrics tell part of the story, but the emotional state of your team is equally critical. Carry out a morale assessment of your team. After the holidays, some team members may still be grappling with the “January blues.” Have you created an environment where they feel supported and motivated? Schedule one-on-one check-ins to discuss not just goals but also concerns, ideas, and well-being. Simple questions like, How are you feeling about the year ahead? can uncover valuable insights. Recognise effort, not just outcomes. Acknowledge small wins to keep spirits high. Gratitude is a powerful motivator.
Reflection without action is a missed opportunity. Use this audit as a springboard for growth. What lessons from January can inform your approach moving forward? Encourage your team to share their reflections during meetings.
Establishing a fail-forward culture within your team is fundamental for long-term growth and resilience. Mistakes are inevitable, but the way you frame them can make all the difference. Foster a culture where missteps are seen as opportunities for growth rather than failures. Implement monthly reflection sessions. These can be brief but impactful moments for the team to discuss what’s working, what isn’t, and how to adapt.
Leadership is not about sprinting through tasks; it is about pacing yourself for the marathon. The leadership audit ensures you’re not just busy but purposeful. It helps you and your team transition from the enthusiasm of a new year to the disciplined execution required for sustainable success.
So, take a moment to scan your instruments. Reassess your vision, align your team, optimise your operations, and check the emotional pulse of those you lead. This isn’t just about closing January; it’s about setting the tone for the months ahead. January may be the runway, but how you assess and adjust now determines the altitude you will maintain for the rest of the year. Don’t let momentum fade; conduct your leadership audit today and steer your team toward a purposeful and productive year ahead. Remember, the clarity you gain today will propel your leadership journey tomorrow. Make the adjustments, embrace the challenges, and soar with confidence.
About the author:
Dr Toye Sobande is a strategic leadership expert, lawyer, public speaker, and trainer. He is the CEO of Stephens Leadership Consultancy LLC, a strategy and management consulting firm offering creative insight and solutions to businesses and leaders. Email: [email protected]
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