INSIGHT
How to Grow as a Leade
How do you grow as a leader? Do you read books, meet with like-minded friends over coffee, listen to podcasts, spend time in prayer, or work with a life coach? Each of these approaches can help, but none of them alone is usually enough to create lasting leadership growth.
One of the biggest lessons I have learned over the years is that there are many ways to grow as a leader. The challenge is that many leaders rely too heavily on only one part of the growth process instead of developing within a complete leadership ecosystem.
Some leaders learn best through peer groups where they discuss business challenges, review case studies, and advise one another. Others are lifelong learners who constantly read books, download podcasts, and pursue new ideas. Some work with executive coaches or mentors, while others use tools like DiSC, Myers-Briggs, or StrengthsFinder to better understand themselves and their leadership style.
All of these methods can help grow leadership skills, but none of them by themselves are enough to help leaders grow holistically.
Why Leadership Growth Requires More Than One Approach
If you want to know how to grow in leadership, it is important to understand that growth happens through a combination of learning, relationships, experience, and self-awareness.
A coach can provide valuable perspective, but leaders can still hide weaknesses or avoid difficult truths. Books and podcasts can fill your mind with knowledge, but too much information without application can create pride instead of wisdom. Peer advice can be helpful, but conflicting opinions can also create confusion if you are not grounded in a clear sense of purpose and direction.
That is why the most effective ways to grow as a leader involve learning in multiple environments over time.
“Real learning happens over time in community.”
Real Leadership Growth Happens in Community
One of the most powerful ways to grow leadership is through meaningful relationships and community. Leadership can be isolating, which is why intentional connection with others is essential.
Jesus modeled this principle by spending time closely investing in His followers. He also spent years learning and growing before beginning His public ministry. Leadership growth rarely happens instantly. It develops gradually through experience, accountability, humility, and consistent learning.
Community helps leaders gain perspective, overcome blind spots, and stay encouraged during challenges. It also reminds us that leadership is not just about achievement — it is about transformation.
How to Grow as Leader Through Humility and Self-Awareness
Another important part of learning how to grow as a leader is recognizing personal weakness and the need for support. Every leader experiences struggles, emotional wounds, insecurities, or areas of immaturity.
Honest self-awareness creates space for real growth. Leaders who admit they do not have all the answers are often the ones who continue developing over the long term.
When we acknowledge our limitations, we become more open to wisdom, coaching, faith, and healthy community. This mindset allows leaders to grow in leadership with humility instead of ego.
Practical Ways to Grow as a Leader
If you are asking yourself, “How do you want to grow as a leader?” consider creating a balanced growth strategy that includes multiple forms of development:
- Read books and leadership articles regularly
- Listen to educational podcasts and teachings
- Join a peer-to-peer leadership group
- Work with a coach or mentor
- Seek outside consultants when needed
- Spend time reflecting, praying, and listening to God
- Build relationships with people who challenge and encourage you
The strongest leaders continue learning throughout every season of life and leadership.
Leadership Growth Is a Journey
Ultimately, learning how to grow as a leader is not about finding one perfect solution. It is about consistently pursuing growth through community, wisdom, faith, accountability, and experience.
Leadership development takes time, intentionality, and humility. The good news is that you do not have to do it alone.
Real growth happens when leaders commit to learning together, supporting one another, and becoming the kind of leaders who inspire positive change in others.
About the Author
Greg Leith is the CEO of Convene. He was born in Canada and lived in all four corners of North America. His career spans over 35 years of senior leadership roles in corporate, non-profit and academic sectors. Recently, he served as Director of Strategic Alliances for 13 years at Biola University in California.