Innovation thrives in the right environment. Leaders who drive it don’t just talk about it – they create the conditions for it to flourish. Here are a few insights I shared in a recent workshop on one of my favorite topics.
🔹 Start with people
Innovation is a byproduct of engaged, thriving, and inspired people. Yet too often companies who say innovation is their top priority overlook the very talent who make it possible, eroding their energy and trust. You can’t shoot for the stars with a bent arrow.
🔹 Make innovation a mindset, not a function
Centralizing it solely within R&D or a dedicated team can signal that innovation isn’t everyone’s responsibility. True impact comes when a mindset of ownership permeates the entire organization, with every team member empowered to contribute, iterate and drive ideas forward.
🔹 Break down silos, cut the politics
Teams should be able to move freely around an idea without friction or power struggles. Bridging the gap between “it’s not my job to define it” and “it’s not my job to solve it” ensures new ideas don’t die in the space between roles.
🔹 Create a process, not just output
Innovation doesn’t happen in a one-off brainstorming session, nor in between back-to-back meetings. It requires dedicated time and consistent leadership choices that foster curiosity, empowerment, and long-term problem-solving skills. Build structure. Instill values. Make space for teams to explore, experiment, and evolve.
🔹Model clarity and simplicity
The ability to distill complexity and articulate the “why” in a simple, digestible way is deeply underrated. Defaulting to AI-powered slides and jargon can leave teams confidently clueless. Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. Without it, people innovate on a flat tire – either in the wrong direction or stuck in a loop.
🔹 Ignite and orchestrate energy
As Peter Drucker said, “your first and foremost job as a leader is to take charge of your own energy and then help to orchestrate the energy of those around you.” Strategy sets the direction, but it’s the daily micro-behaviors that harness our innate curiosity and drive. People innovate when they care, not on autopilot.
🔹 Embrace ambiguity and contradictions
Encouraging teams to hold opposing perspectives allows them to grasp nuances and come up with solutions that bridge polarities. Foster a culture of “strong opinions, weakly held”, since the best solution often requires a flexible mindset.
🔹Lead with wisdom, intention and care
Wise leadership is key. It’s knowing that just because you don’t punish failure doesn’t mean your teams automatically feel safe to take risks. Innovation isn’t built on subtle cues but bold, explicit leadership.
Lastly, leaders who cultivate confidence, creativity, and a risk-taking mindset inspire the same in their teams. What we practice inward, we reflect outward. So if you want to build something great, start by building yourself.
Habit of Growth 