Welcome to The Subtle Shift, a weekly newsletter where I share small but powerful ideas to help you lead with clarity, inspire change, and create a lasting impact. This week’s issue is about shifting between results and relationships—and why mastering this balance is the key to effective leadership. If you find this helpful, please forward it to someone who might benefit from it and encourage them to join the community.
Shifting Between Results and Relationships
Some leaders are all about results. They push hard, set ambitious targets, and drive execution relentlessly.
Others are all about relationships. They prioritize collaboration, care deeply about their team’s well-being, and focus on building trust.
Both approaches can work—until they don’t.
The Problem With Focusing on Just One
Leadership isn’t just about achieving outcomes. And it’s not just about people. It’s about both.
When leaders focus too much on results, they risk:
- Burning out their teams with relentless pressure.
- Damaging trust and engagement.
- Sacrificing long-term success for short-term wins.
When leaders focus too much on relationships, they risk:
- Avoiding tough decisions and accountability.
- Failing to push for necessary growth and improvement.
- Prioritizing harmony over progress.
The Key: Shifting Between the Two
Great leaders don’t choose between results and relationships. They shift between them.
They know when to push for performance and when to pause and connect. They move their attention seamlessly—understanding that leadership is about working with and through people to get things done.
So, how can you develop this ability?
Three Subtle Shifts to Balance Results and Relationships
1. Identify Your Default Mode
We all have a natural tendency toward one or the other. Are you more results-focused or relationship-driven?
Pay attention this week. Notice where your energy naturally goes. Self-awareness is the first step to making a shift.
Ask yourself: Do I tend to prioritize tasks over people or people over tasks?
2. Adjust Your Attention Based on the Moment
Some situations demand execution. Others require a connection.
A high-stakes project deadline? You may need to lean into results.
A disengaged team member? You may need to invest in the relationship.
Ask yourself: What does this situation need more of—clarity and drive or trust and connection?
3. Make Small Tweaks, Not Big Overhauls
If you’re results-focused, try pausing before pushing forward—ask one more question, check in with your team.
If you’re relationship-focused, challenge yourself to set clear expectations and hold the line when necessary.
Ask yourself: What slight adjustment can I make to bring more balance?
Leadership Requires Both
The best leaders don’t just get things done—they help their team take ownership. And they don’t just build relationships—they ensure those relationships drive meaningful progress.
So, this week, challenge yourself:
If you naturally lean toward results, invest a little more time in relationships.
If you naturally lean toward relationships, focus a little more on results.
The real magic happens when you learn how to make this subtle shift.
