Why leadership is an unnatural act
We like to believe leadership is instinctive. When the time comes, the “leader within” will automatically rise to the occasion. But the truth? Leadership demands the opposite of what our brains are naturally wired to do. In short, leadership is not automatic.
Here’s why leadership feels awkward at first. It’s not because we’re bad at it. It’s because we’re fighting millions of years of human programming. You see, our ancient wiring says, “stay safe!”. Meaning: we avoid danger, minimize discomfort and keep away from risk.
Leadership, however, calls us to:
Take responsibility for the success and growth of others (vs. self-preservation)
Step into uncertainty (vs. avoid risk and ambiguity)
Give difficult feedback (vs. avoid conflict to maintain social harmony)
Imagine the future (vs. short-term survival)
Have all the answers (vs. fostering a culture of seeking solutions from group collaboration and empowerment).
All in all, leadership requires us to make decisions that could fail - sometimes in full view of everyone. Leadership says, serve others first – which could lead to people hurting us. It’s like asking your brain to walk into the fire when every instinct is screaming to flee.
The good news? Like any unnatural act, for example: running a marathon or speaking a new language - leadership can be learned. It takes practice, reflection, and the willingness to push past what feels comfortable. Over time, what once felt unnatural will become second nature.
Why bother?
Well, leadership matters because people matter.
Without intentionality, leadership easily slips into tasks, control or autopilot. But when you choose to be intentional, you don’t just manage work: You make people feel valued, inspired and empowered. And people who feel seen and respected don’t just survive, they thrive.
So, start your rewiring journey today.
Contributor: Kausern Hieu