21 Leadership Habits To Avoid

Follow the leader, leader, leader. Not always. Here are Marshall Goldsmith’s 21 habits that derail effective leadership.

1. The need to win at all costs
2. Adding too much value (the desire to add to every discussion)
3. Passing Judgment
4. Making destructive comments
5. Starting with “no”, “but” or “however” (conveys I’m right, you’re wrong)
6. Telling the world how smart we are
7. Speaking when angry
8. Negativity (let me explain why that won’t work)
9. Withholding information
10. Failing to give proper recognition
11. Claiming credit we do not deserve
12. Making excuses
13. Clinging to the past
14. Playing favorites
15. Refusing to express regret
16. Not listening
17. Failing to express gratitude
18. Punishing the messenger
19. Passing the buck (blaming others)
20. An excessive need to be “me” (exalting our faults as virtues)
21. Refusing to accept responsibility for needing to change (that’s just who I am)

Hope the list sparks your interest as to the qualities to avoid to ensure your leadership is effective. Any thoughts? Do share. We would love to hear!

Cheers!

Author: Dr. Shelly

Dr. Shelly Cameron is a leadership strategist, author, and executive coach dedicated to helping individuals uncover their purpose, elevate their leadership potential, and achieve meaningful success. She is the creator of the GreenLight Leadership Framework. As the curator of SuccessfulLeaders.net, Dr. Shelly shares insights drawn from her extensive experience in organizational development, human resources, and personal growth. She is passionate about empowering professionals to navigate change, manage stress, and design fulfilling lives through intentional goal setting, self-discovery, and continuous learning. Dr. Shelly's research on Success Strategies was published in the JAABC Business Journal. She is also the author of several books, including works on leadership, success, and cultural intelligence. View all posts by Dr. Shelly