Breaking the "Rule" Book
What Got You Here Won't Keep You Here
Last time, we talked about the silent "shoulds" that executive-track leaders carry. These are the rules we set for ourselves about competence, control, and composure.
Once you recognize them, why are these rules so hard to break?
You probably made these rules to help you succeed when facing a different challenge altogether.
They felt safe and led to early wins.
But what worked in the past might not help you now. Old rules can lead to perfectionism, overwork, and burnout.
When the Rulebook Becomes a Bottleneck
Holding onto strict rules in a fast-paced world slows you down.
A McKinsey study found that leaders now deal with twice as many critical issues each week as they did just ten years ago.
When complexity spikes, a rigid rulebook becomes a bottleneck.
The 5-Minute Rule Review
To break out of these patterns, try this exercise this week:
Notice: Jot down one "rule" driving your behavior today.
Inspect: Ask yourself, "Does this rule serve the leader I am becoming, or the role I used to have?"
Share: Talk it through with a trusted colleague, or reframe it intentionally.
From Awareness to Action
Remember that rules are meant to be reviewed, changed, or even let go.
Notice the rule, then choose your next step intentionally.
With intention,
Scott
PS. What's one old rule you need to drop this week to make room for your team? Comment and let me know—I read every single one of them.
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