Today, I want to address a challenge we’ve all faced at one point or another: the struggle to maintain a fresh perspective in leadership. There is not much more disheartening than feeling like your leadership style has gone stale. Keeping a fresh perspective is absolutely necessary for any leader. If you’re feeling stale or feeling like you've been off your A-game, I’m hoping to remind you of that time when you felt at the top of your game. I’ve got 7 tools I’ve personally put into practice to keep things fresh and exciting. Let’s dive in!

1. Ask yourself questions.

It all starts with introspection. I regularly ask myself these 5 questions; try them for yourself:

1. What is my mission?

2. Who is my client?

3. What does my client value?

4. What is my plan?

5. What are my results?

Good questions inform, but great questions transform. The purpose of these questions is to guide you toward clarity and help you stay on track. Remember, a fresh perspective often begins with self-awareness.

2. Know what you bring to the Table.

Identifying your unique strengths and contributions is crucial. I have found this to be very challenging, but also very effective. Ask yourself:

1. What would the world miss if I left my post?

2. Where does my contribution matter?

Understanding your value adds a layer of authenticity to your leadership. It’s not just about what you do; it’s about the unique way you do it. How you do what you do can change, but what you do shouldn’t change. Embrace your strengths, and let them shine in everything you undertake.

3. Be Yourself

Authenticity is your greatest asset. The greatest gift one human being can give another is to offer themselves. This comes from focusing on who you are more than what you do. You will always be better at being yourself, than trying to be someone or something you're not. As the saying goes, “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” Your true self will always resonate more powerfully than a facade. In the end, who we are spills over into what we do. But what we do cannot define who we are.

4. Keep It Fresh

Change is constant, and stagnation is the enemy of progress. What’s working today may not work tomorrow. I believe you are either evolving (growing and getting better) or becoming stagnant. Be proactive in recognizing the need for change. Embrace evolution and continually seek new and innovative approaches. Remember, staying fresh requires a commitment to staying ahead of the curve.

5. Commit to Growth.

Make growth a non-negotiable priority. This has become one of my top priorities each year and it’s been the catalyst for incredible growth throughout my adult life. Set ambitious goals and develop intentional plans to achieve them. Staying committed to growth is critical for keeping a fresh perspective in leadership (and life). As the saying goes, “Growth isn’t easy, but it’s necessary!”

6. Discipline Is The Key.

John Maxwell often tells a story of the legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden. Coach Wooden would begin each season by watching his players practice shoot from all over the court. Then he would identify the spot where each player was most effective so that he could develop plays that set his players up for their sweet spots.

Coach John Wooden knew the importance of discipline. Identify your strengths, stay true to your “sweet spot,” and develop the disciplines that make you successful. Personal discipline will carry you through when the pressure is on, ensuring consistent and positive results.

7. Ask yourself 3 questions at the end of every day.

At the end of each day, ask yourself three crucial questions:

1. What did I learn today?

2. How did I grow today?

3. What will I do differently?

If you don't plan to do anything differently tomorrow, you’re missing an opportunity for growth. Learning is a continuous journey, and these daily reflections will keep you on the path of improvement.

Give it a shot. Applying these seven tools can breathe new life into your leadership. Embrace change, prioritize growth, and stay disciplined in your pursuits. Remember, a fresh perspective isn’t just beneficial; it’s essential for thriving in our dynamic world. Give these tools a shot and watch as your leadership perspective becomes a beacon of inspiration for those around you!