Switch from judging to learning: The knowledge is already there

Picture yourself at the helm of a ship. Yesterday, you were part of the crew, following orders and executing tasks. Today, you’re the captain. This is the reality many new leaders face – and it’s both exciting and daunting.

The leadership paradox

Here’s a fundamental truth about leadership that many discover too late: You can’t be learning if you’re judging. 

Yet, this is exactly what many new leaders do. They step into their role and find themselves rushing to make changes, judging their team’s performance and critiquing existing processes, or they become paralyzed by self-doubt, questioning their every decision and retreating into the safety of inaction. Neither path leads to effective leadership.

Understanding your new reality

As a new leader, you’ve stepped onto the bridge of your ship, but you might find yourself struggling to steer it effectively. Why? Because leadership isn’t just about giving directions – it’s about understanding both the human dynamics and professional depth of your crew.

Each team member brings their own world to work every day. Some carry the weight of imposter syndrome, questioning if they’re truly qualified for their role. Others harbor ambitious dreams they’re hesitant to share. They have families they worry about, personal goals they’re pursuing, and their own definitions of success.

Just as importantly, your crew members possess deep expertise that may not be immediately visible from the bridge. That quiet engineer might have pivotal knowledge of systems they’ve maintained for years. The project coordinator who seems resistant to change might understand subtle dependencies that keep projects running smoothly. 

Understanding both these dimensions – the human and the professional – is crucial for effective leadership.

The learning leader’s advantage

Great leaders share one crucial characteristic: they never stop learning. Instead of making snap judgments, they ask thoughtful questions and create an environment where team members feel safe to open up and connect.

Switch to learning – about yourself

Before you can effectively lead others, turn your learning lens inward:

– What assumptions am I making?

– What are the actual facts at hand?

– What do I want for both myself and my team?

– What am I thinking, feeling, and wanting?

– What’s the best path forward?

Switch to learning – about your team

Once you’ve developed self-awareness, focus on understanding your team through powerful questions:

– “What defines a really satisfying day’s work for you?” 

– “What possibilities do you see that we haven’t explored?” 

– “How has this challenge impacted you and those around you?” 

– “What support do you need from me right now?” 

From insight to action

Turn insights into action by ending conversations with clear commitments:

– “What specific steps will you take next?” 

– “When will you complete these actions?” 

– “What potential obstacles should we plan for?” 

– “How confident do you feel about this plan?” 

The leadership journey

True leadership isn’t about having all the answers – it’s about asking the right questions. When you shift from judgment to learning, you create an environment where both you and your team can grow together. The most effective leaders aren’t those who make the quickest decisions, but those who approach each day with curiosity and create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

So, new leaders – and even experienced leaders – if you are ready to put down the gavel of judgment and pick up the torch of learning, start with this simple but powerful shift in mindset.