I remember my first leadership role like it was yesterday. After years of being a successful manager, I thought the transition would be natural. Spoiler alert: it wasn't quite that simple.

Today, as I coach new leaders through this exact transition, I see the same challenges arise time and time again. Perhaps you're facing them too?

The Manager-Leader Gap

Let's address the elephant in the room: management and leadership are different beasts. As one of my recent clients put it: "I was great at getting things done. But suddenly I needed to be great at getting things done through others – and that's a whole different skill set."

Here's what nobody tells you about this transition:

The Uncomfortable Truths

1. Your Previous Strengths Might Not Serve You
   Those exceptional organisational and technical skills that made you a stellar manager? They're still valuable, but they're no longer your primary toolkit. Leadership requires a different set of muscles.
2. The Metrics Have Changed
   Success isn't just about hitting targets anymore. It's about:
   • Developing others
   • Creating a vision
   • Building a culture
   • Enabling innovation
   • Fostering engagement
3. You'll Feel Like a Beginner Again (And That's OK)

My story: Imposter Syndrome dialled up to 11!

That first senior leadership role was one of the most challenging things I've ever done, and I've had twins! I felt like a massive imposter and spent all my time feeling like I was 'faking it til I made it'. And guess what? I never made it! My leadership approach was different to my peers and I really struggled to find my feet because I would second guess all of my decisions. Hello Imposter Syndrome 🖐 and self-doubt. The thing is, I was actually really good at my job, but all the pressure I put on myself to be 'perfect' meant I struggled to see it. So what advice can I share to help you through this tricky challenge?

The Critical Shifts

Here are the key shifts I needed to go through:

From Doing to Enabling:
• Manager: Completes tasks efficiently
• Leader: Creates environments where others can excel

From Knowing to Learning:
• Manager: Provides answers
• Leader: Asks powerful questions

From Control to Trust:
• Manager: Directs work
• Leader: Empowers others

From Problems to Possibilities:
• Manager: Solves immediate issues
• Leader: Envisions future opportunities

Practical Steps for Your Journey

1. Embrace the Discomfort
   Leadership growth happens outside your comfort zone. That uncertain feeling? It's a sign you're growing.
2. Find Your Leadership Voice
   You don't need to mimic other leaders. Authentic leadership builds trust. Start by identifying your values and strengths and then lead from there.
3. Build Your Support Network
   Find a mentor, join leadership groups, or work with a leadership coach. You don't have to figure this out alone.

A Personal Note

In my years of leadership coaching, I've noticed that those who succeed in this transition share one crucial trait: they're willing to be learners again. They understand that leadership is a journey, not a destination. They don't have all the answers and they know they don't need to.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Trying to prove yourself through doing more
• Holding onto old habits that no longer serve you
• Neglecting to delegate effectively
• Avoiding difficult conversations

Moving Forward

Remember, this transition is a marathon, not a sprint. Give yourself permission to:
• Make mistakes
• Ask for help
• Learn continuously
• Celebrate small wins

Your Next Steps

1. Identify your leadership strengths
2. Reflect on which areas of leadership feel most challenging for you
3. Consider what support you need in this transition

Want to explore this further? I'd love to hear about your experiences, let's schedule a discovery call to discuss how leadership coaching could support your transition.

Remember: Every great leader started exactly where you are now. The key is to keep moving forward, one step at a time.

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