Do you feel like your leadership abilities could use some improvement? Strategic advisor and U.S. business expert James Disney-May shares insights on common leadership pitfalls and offers practical strategies to help you grow into a stronger leader.
As reported by National World, Disney-May—an entrepreneur and SaaS investment specialist—emphasizes that leadership is not an exclusive trait reserved for CEOs or naturally charismatic individuals. Instead, he asserts, “Leadership is a skill that anyone can learn, refine, and master with intentional effort.”
With extensive experience in Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) investment, Disney-May is also a successful entrepreneur, business owner, and strategic advisor. His expertise spans a diverse portfolio of technology investments and wholly owned companies across the UK, Europe, and the U.S.
Believing that leadership can be cultivated, Disney-May highlights several key strategies for becoming a more effective leader.
Embrace Uncertainty
According to Disney-May, change is inevitable in both life and business. The key difference between a strong leader and others is the ability to thrive in uncertain environments. Whether facing industry shifts, technological advancements, or market fluctuations, effective leaders welcome change rather than resist it.
To become a better leader, you need to develop skills such as agility, resilience, and clear communication under pressure. Your team should view you as a steady and confident presence, capable of navigating challenges and seizing new opportunities with composure.
Develop Emotional Intelligence
Many people assume that leadership is about delegating tasks and issuing directives, but the most successful leaders prioritize building meaningful relationships. Emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in this process.
Rather than relying solely on technical expertise or credentials, exceptional leaders leverage emotional intelligence to empathize with their team members and engage in self-reflection. James Disney-May emphasizes that leaders with high emotional intelligence can more effectively resolve conflicts and manage complex interpersonal dynamics, fostering a healthier work environment.
Commit to Lifelong Learning
A great leader never assumes they have all the answers. Regardless of whether you’re a manager or a CEO, staying committed to continuous learning ensures ongoing personal growth and leadership development.
Disney-May advocates for acquiring new skills through workshops, training programs, and mentorship opportunities. By actively seeking knowledge and new experiences, leaders can adapt more swiftly to evolving challenges and market demands, ultimately strengthening their effectiveness.
Inspire and Influence Others
Personal growth is essential, but truly outstanding leaders extend their influence by inspiring and empowering those around them. By making consistent, small efforts to uplift team members, leaders can create a work environment where individuals feel valued and motivated to perform at their best.
Influencing and inspiring others is often more impactful than exercising formal authority. Like the power of compound interest, this approach gains momentum over time as both the leader and their team continue to develop.
Disney-May suggests focusing on activities such as coaching, self-reflection, and intentionally refining emotional intelligence to foster an environment where employees feel encouraged rather than simply instructed.
By embracing these principles, aspiring leaders can build strong, adaptable, and influential leadership styles that benefit both their teams and their organizations as a whole.
