Leadership challenges don’t always come from the marketplace, the competition, or even the team. Often, the biggest barriers exist inside the leader’s own thinking. Executive coach and advisor Muriel Wilkins explains how hidden beliefs quietly shape our leadership behavior—and sometimes hold us back from achieving the results we want most.
Drawing on decades of coaching senior executives, Wilkins explores what she calls “blocked leadership”—the gap between the outcomes leaders desire and the results they actually experience. She argues that while many leaders try to fix problems by adjusting tactics or strategies, the real breakthrough often comes from examining the beliefs driving those actions. By cultivating curiosity, questioning assumptions, and reframing limiting narratives, leaders can unlock new levels of effectiveness, resilience, and influence.
Limiting Narratives Shape Leadership Behavior
Leaders frequently operate from internal stories—such as “I must be involved in everything” or “This must be done immediately.” These beliefs can lead to micromanagement, overwhelm, and ineffective decision-making.Curiosity Is the First Step to Unblocking
The path to growth begins with curiosity. When leaders ask themselves, “What belief is driving this reaction?” they begin uncovering the assumptions influencing their actions. This framework helps leaders handle mistakes, tough conversations, and decisions more thoughtfully.Culture Reflects Collective Assumptions
Organizational culture is ultimately a collection of shared beliefs. Leaders can shift culture by encouraging teams to question assumptions and openly examine the thinking behind decisions.
Challenge One Limiting Narrative
Choose a belief that may be holding you back and experiment with reframing it into a more empowering perspective.Apply Organizational Thinking to Yourself
Just as you diagnose problems in your organization, conduct a “leadership audit” on your own mindset and behaviors.Identify Your Current Leadership Gap
Ask yourself honest questions about where you’re experiencing a disconnect between the results you want and the results you’re getting.
