I don’t know
Saying "I don't know" feels like admitting defeat. Yet, it's the most powerful phrase in a leader's arsenal.
Remember the last time your boss pretended to have all the answers? It likely left you with a nagging sense of doubt. We can smell insincerity from afar, and it erodes trust faster than anything else.
Real leadership isn't about being an all-knowing guru. It's about creating an environment where uncertainty is safe, questions are welcome, and exploration is encouraged. When you admit you don't have all the answers, you build trust through honesty. You encourage others to speak up and contribute. You model continuous learning and create space for innovation.
The next time you're tempted to bluff your way through, pause. Take a deep breath and admit your uncertainty. Then, invite collaboration: "I don't know. Let's figure it out together."
Watch as your team rallies around you, bringing their best ideas to the table. Feel the energy shift from fear of failure to excitement about discovery.
This is where breakthroughs happen. This is where loyalty is born. This is true leadership.
Are you brave enough to not know?