“Trying” to Lead? Here’s Why It’s Not Working
Why “trying” keeps you stuck, and how decisive language creates real leadership momentum.
If you're “trying” to lead, your team is probably still waiting for you to show up.
“Trying” to Lead? Here’s Why It’s Not Working
How many times have you said (to yourself), “I’m trying to be a better leader”—and still felt like you were going in circles?
You’re not alone. The word “trying” is often a subtle escape hatch. It sounds like effort, but communicates uncertainty. And in leadership, ambiguity is costly.
What Your Mind Hears When You Say “Try”
The brain responds best to clear, decisive commands. When you say, “I’m trying to lead better,” you’re sending an incomplete message. It leaves space for doubt, hesitation, and inconsistency.
“Try” is passive. It hints at effort, but lacks ownership. It’s like starting down a path without truly committing to the destination.
And here’s a fun twist—“try” often feels like being “in a loop.” You keep spinning the same ideas: “I try to give better feedback”, “I try to listen more”, “I try to delegate.” But nothing really changes.
Replace “Try” with “Do”
What if you swapped “try” for something more powerful?
👉 Instead of “I’m trying to be a better communicator,” say “I choose to lead with clarity.”
👉 Instead of “I try to empower my team,” say “I take daily actions to build trust and autonomy.”
Words matter. They shape your mindset. And your mindset shapes your leadership. When you speak with clarity, your brain kicks into problem-solving mode. Your actions start aligning with your intentions.
How to Step Out of the Leadership Loop
📌 Set precise intentions. Replace vague statements like “I try to...” with “I will do X, in this way, by this time.”
📌 Act now, not later. Don’t just say “I want to connect more with my team.” Schedule the 1:1. Ask the deeper question.
📌 Connect emotionally. Why does this shift in leadership matter to you? How will it feel when you embody it fully?
📌 Be kind in the process. Growth is messy. You’ll miss a step—don’t beat yourself up. Learn, adapt, lead forward.
Leadership Doesn’t Respond to “Try”
Trying keeps you in limbo. Doing moves you forward. You have the power to make bold, intentional choices—and it starts with the words you use every day.
So—where in your leadership language could you replace “try” with “do”?
Hit comment and let me know. I’d love to hear.
