At the start of a new project or business cycle, it’s easy to feel energized. You set bold goals, commit to a strong strategy, and prepare for meaningful change.
A few weeks in, despite all your effort, the results aren’t as obvious or motivating as you hoped.
You’re putting in the work. So why doesn’t it feel like it’s paying off?
This is often when frustration sets in. When it does, even the most well-intentioned leaders can fall into subtle patterns that quietly erode their credibility, influence, and trust.
A client recently asked me to highlight specific behaviors that weaken a leader’s presence. This two-part series explores four common traps that do exactly that. In Part One, we’ll cover the first two.
These behaviours aren’t limited to new managers or people navigating growth – seasoned executives fall into them too. They may seem harmless in the moment, but over time, they chip away at your leadership brand.
Letting Go Of what undermines your power
As a leader, your words and actions shape how others see you and how you see yourself. Your personal brand is your benchmark. Not what others are doing. Not what your environment has normalized. You set the tone for yourself.
Taking full responsibility for how you show up isn’t optional if you want to lead with authenticity and build a reputation you’re proud of.
Let’s dive into the first two traps that can quietly derail even strong leaders:
TRAP #1: Making Excuses
Excuses are subtle. They often show up when you’re avoiding the truth or protecting your ego. But even small ones create disconnects and diminish your credibility.
When you drop the excuses and take full ownership, you reclaim your power. You build trust with others and with yourself.
What it sounds like:
The Excuse: “I didn’t have enough time to complete the presentation. I thought I could handle it on my own and the team was already overloaded. By the time I asked for input, it was too late.”
Taking Ownership: “I didn’t complete the presentation. I underestimated the value of the teams’ input and brought them in too late. I’ll have a completed version ready by Monday at noon. When’s a good time to review it together?”
Or …
The Excuse: “I really meant to work out, but the holidays threw me completely off.”
Taking Ownership: “I didn’t prioritize workouts over the holidays. I’ve now scheduled my next two months of workouts to get back on track.”
Ownership isn’t always easy, though it is simple. And it’s empowering. It develops confidence, credibility, and trust.
Ask yourself:
- Where might you be softening the truth or letting yourself off the hook?
- Am I defending myself instead of fully owning my role?
Honesty grows trust. Accountability strengthens confidence – in you and in your leadership.
TRAP #2: blaming others
Blame is a defence mechanism. When things go wrong, it can feel easier to point fingers and deflect than to look inward. Every time you blame, you give your power away.
Blame sends the message, intentionally or not, that it is out of your control. The truth? You’re always in control of your choices, your responses and how you show up.
What it sounds like:
Blaming: “This is how everyone dresses. Investors don’t care what I wear.”
Taking Control: “I realized my appearance didn’t reflect the impression I wanted to make. I now wear a collared shirt and a sport coat. It has investors taking me seriously and reflects my brand.”
Or ….
Blaming: “They ignore my instructions and don’t follow through. I lose my temper, but it’s not my fault.”
Taking control: “We’ve clarified the process for submitting expenses. Anything submitted more than ten days late is the submitter’s responsibility. I’m available to support as needed.”
Boundaries and accountability aren’t punishments; they’re leadership tools. They clarify standards and reinforce respect.
Ask yourself:
- Am I blaming others for how I feel or react?
- Am I letting external chaos dictate my internal state?
- Have I clearly communicated expectations?
No one can “make” you act out of alignment. You always have a choice.
The power of responsibility
When you take full ownership, you take back your power.
- Be honest with yourself first.
- Say what’s true, even when it’s uncomfortable.
- Don’t protect your image at the cost of your integrity.
- Let your actions consistently reflect your brand.
Observe Yourself:
Over the next week, watch for these traps in your day-to-day. When you catch yourself making an excuse or blaming someone else, pause and reframe it. You can also ask someone you trust to call you out on it.
The most respected leaders aren’t perfect. They’re accountable.
Ready to Elevate Your Leadership?
At Authentic Leaders Edge, we help professionals like you develop a powerful leadership presence. Whether you’re leading a team or defining your personal brand, Dorothy Lazovik provides tailored coaching to accelerate your growth.
Book a complimentary 30-minute consultation to explore how coaching can help you step into your full potential. Email today to get started!
[…] Part One, we explored two subtle yet damaging leadership behaviours: making excuses and blaming […]