Rethinking What It Means to Be a Successful Leader

Tradition tells us that “successful leadership” looks like titles, accolades, and hitting all the right metrics. But let’s be real—those markers don’t hold up in the world we’re leading in today.

We’re living in a BANI/VUCA age—brittle, anxious, non-linear, and incomprehensible…volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous. Whatever you call it, disruption is here to stay.

And in times like these, being “good” isn’t enough. Leaders need to be effective—in ways that go beyond old playbooks. Yes, we can nod to leadership voices like Simon Sinek (focus on your “why”), Stephen Covey (build effective habits), or Brené Brown (answer the call to courage). But here's a reality check: none of that matters if we don’t sharpen the real enablers - the meta skills.

No, not “soft” or “nice-to-have” skills but the foundational human skills that give us legs to stand on. They’re not learned from a book—they’re practiced, embodied, and grown over time. As a coach, this is where I love to stretch leaders to their edge.

So what meta-skills matter most right now?

1. Self-awareness

The foundation of it all. The ability to see your own patterns, thoughts, and behaviors with honesty—and adjust when needed. Self-awareness takes you below the surface and opens up genuine connection with others.

2. Creativity

At its core, creativity isn’t about being an artist—it’s about being curious. Instead of getting stuck in “yes/no” or “right/wrong,” try asking: “What else is possible here? What else do I need to learn?”When curiosity meets self-awareness, doors open to new possibilities.

3. Resilience

Life is messy. Plans fall apart. 2020—and honestly, every year since—has reminded us of that. Resilience is the muscle that helps us get back up, again and again. And it often begins with one overlooked skill: self-empathy.

Our times require unlearning, learning, and relearning—all at once. These three skill sets are not beyond you. They live inside us, waiting for practice and attention.

From my heart to yours we’ve got this!

If you’re ready to strengthen these skills in yourself or your team, reach out. At CaPeesh, we grow minds and hearts so leaders can show up human, courageous, and effective—no matter what the world throws next.