Warning - reboot required
Even the most capable leaders need regular system updates — moments to pause, recalibrate, and decide what still serves them (and what doesn’t).
I’ve been hearing it a lot lately: “I’m stretched thin. The work hasn’t slowed, but my energy has.”
It’s not a motivation issue. It’s an operating system issue.
McKinsey & Company’s recent article (link below) explores this idea. The authors suggest that leaders, like systems, need intentional upgrades to stay steady, focused, and effective.
What leaders are finding valuable right now
Across the leaders and teams I’ve been working with, three things keep standing out:
1. Space to think — not templates to follow
The most capable leaders already hold the answers; they just need perspective and a trusted sounding board to see them clearly. A general manager from a major banking institution reflected on our coaching programme together. When I asked which resource from the nine sessions had been most valuable, he paused and said:
“You, Libby. You listened, you challenged... you were the most valuable resource.”
His words were a reminder that the real value isn’t always in the tools. It’s in the clarity and confidence that come from slowing down to think.
2. Teams that reconnect before they reset
When things change quickly — restructures, growth, or shifting priorities — connection matters most. Teams that take the time to realign regain clarity faster and move forward with purpose.
3. Development that belongs to you
The strongest organisations are now co-creating leadership development tailored to their culture. It’s learning that fits, not frameworks imposed. That sense of ownership creates real movement.
Three ways to reboot your own leadership operating system
Run a quick system check
Step back and ask what’s working — and what’s not.
Ask yourself: What deserves my best energy right now?
Update your settings
Notice where your time and focus are going. Adjust what no longer fits the role you’re in today.
Ask yourself: Am I spending my time where I add the most value?
Protect your power source
Performance drops when energy does. Build in pauses, connection, and routines that help you reset.
Ask yourself: What keeps my energy steady when things get full-on?
| A reflection to take forward Even the best systems need maintenance. Leadership’s no different. Every so often, it’s worth pressing pause, clearing the cache, updating what’s outdated, and rebooting what helps you work at your best. A former coachee framed this beautifully after completing our work together: “…Thank you, Libby, for the kick start (or should I say ‘reboot’) I needed.” That word "reboot" captures what I aim to bring to every leader, team, and organisation I work with: - anchored perspective - practical tools, and - the kind of reset that helps you move forward with confidence and purpose. If you or your team are ready for your own “reboot,” let’s talk. |