Whether you envisaged it or not when you first started in business, any business owner is the captain at the helm of a ship. You’re not just responsible for your own financial welfare – you’re responsible for the livelihood of others, their job satisfaction, and the course that your boat will navigate to reach the sunny shores of success.
For some, this leadership comes naturally. For others, the waters feel murky and uncertain. But here’s the truth: great leadership can be the difference between a rough and arduous voyage and smooth sailing. And just like navigating the open seas, it’s a skill that can be developed with the right tools, insights, and support.
So, how do you step up and lead your team to success?
Here are three essential elements to master and how to bring them to life.
1. The Destination
If you don’t know the destination, how do you set sail?
Great leadership begins with clarity. It’s not enough to have a vague idea of “growing the business” or “doing better this year”. You need a specific, measurable destination. Where are you taking your business? What does success look like for you, your team, and your clients?
These are questions you should be asking regularly, as part of your ongoing business planning and strategy. At least once a year, pose these questions and work out how the answers fit into your business plan.
And if finding clarity is proving an issue, consider seeking an outsiders perspective in the form of a business strategist or coach.
The aim of the game is to get clear on the direction your business is heading. Then chart the course, map checkpoints along the way, and prepare for the inevitable detours.
Like any journey on the high seas, business is about knowing your direction, anticipating challenges, and having the agility to adapt when the weather turns.
You can’t lead others effectively if you’re unclear on where you’re going. Set the destination, chart the course, and communicate it clearly to your crew.
2. Leadership Style
Every captain has their own way of motivating their crew. Every leader has a style – some are directive, others more collaborative. But often, we don’t take the time to reflect on what our style actually is.
Self-awareness is a core trait of strong leadership. Great leaders know when to encourage, when to challenge, when to reward, and when to redirect.
They have the emotional intelligence to read the room, and the confidence to make tough decisions when necessary.
It begs the question, what’s our leadership style?
Are you empowering your team, or micromanaging? Are your instructions clear, or are you assuming others can read your mind?
These are important questions to ask yourself, in the knowledge every leader benefits from self reflection and skills refresher course at times.
3. Know Your Team
Behind every successful leader is a great team—and it’s your job to help that team thrive.
That means truly knowing your people. Not just their job titles, but their strengths, their challenges, their goals. Are they in the right roles? Do they have the tools they need to succeed? Are they being recognised for what they do well?
Leadership isn’t about barking orders from the bridge—it’s about understanding the art of people. Creating role clarity, setting expectations, and providing ongoing feedback are all essential.
When you know your team and they know the direction, you unlock a level of performance that makes the journey faster, smoother, and far more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about leading your business to new heights, now’s the time to step up. The seas might be unpredictable, but with the right mindset, tools, and support, you can steer your ship with confidence.
Because great leadership isn’t just about being in charge – it’s about getting your people to the destination with purpose, clarity, and a shared sense of achievement.
