Leadership Paradox #6: Listening vs Leading
- Ralph Cochrane
- Aug 19
- 1 min read
Lead less. Listen more. Your voice gets stronger when others feel heard.
It’s tempting to think leadership means having all the answers. After all, you’re expected to guide, direct, and decide.
But if you’re always the one talking, you’re not learning. You’re not uncovering the quiet insights. You’re not making space for your team’s brilliance to surface.
True leadership often starts with curiosity—asking thoughtful questions, listening with intention, and creating space for others to contribute freely. It’s not about stepping back; it’s about lifting others forward.
Listening doesn’t diminish your authority. It amplifies your impact.
The paradox? The less airtime you take, the more influence you gain—because people feel seen, heard, and valued.
When was the last time you said less… and got more?
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