As a mother of two and a small business owner, I know how challenging it can be to juggle responsibilities. And still, be a leader others look up to. When I started my business, I struggled to find the balance between leading with confidence and leading with care. Over time, I’ve learned that great leadership isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress, purpose, and yes, love. Here are some leadership tips that have helped me. And I hope they’ll inspire you to lead with love in 2025.
Start with Your “Why”
Every leader has a unique story. For me, it’s being a mom and a businesswoman who values time management deeply. Understanding my “why” gives me direction. While also helping me to make decisions that align with my values. I encourage you to pause and reflect on what drives you. Your purpose is the foundation of your leadership. Also, when it’s clear, it’s easier to lead with authenticity and inspire others.
Listen Before You Lead
One of the most powerful leadership tips I’ve embraced is listening. It’s tempting to feel like you have to have all the answers. But sometimes, the best thing you can do is listen. Whether it’s to your team, your customers, or even your kids. For instance, when I was dryland training my son’s hockey team, I learned that hearing their ideas (even the silly ones) helped build trust and teamwork. The same applies to business: a listening ear often creates stronger connections and better solutions.
Manage Your Time with Intention
Time management is at the heart of effective leadership. With so much to juggle, it’s essential to prioritize. I swear by using my organization apps like Trello. These apps help me plan my day. And a simple rule: focus on the top three tasks that matter most. For example, when preparing for a holiday launch, I set aside specific time blocks for brainstorming, execution, and review. By staying intentional with your time, you get more done while showing your team you value efficiency and balance.
Empower Your Team
A loving leader doesn’t try to do it all. Instead, they empower their team to shine. Trust me, I learned this the hard way when I tried to handle every detail during my business’s first year. Delegation isn’t just about offloading tasks; it’s about giving others the chance to grow and excel. Whether you’re working with a full-time staff or part-time freelancers, creating an environment where everyone feels valued boosts productivity and morale.
Celebrate Small Wins
In leadership, it’s easy to focus on the big picture. But celebrating small victories makes a world of difference. Recognition doesn’t have to be extravagant; it’s the thought that counts. Small gestures make people feel appreciated, which fuels their motivation to keep striving.
Lead by Example
Your actions as a leader speak louder than words. If you want your team to embrace innovation, show them how you approach challenges creatively. If you value work-life balance, model it by setting boundaries. I make it a point to put my phone away during family dinner—it’s a small way to show my kids and my team that balance matters.
Remember, leadership is about setting the tone through your actions.
Stay Flexible
As a mother and business owner, I’ve learned that nothing ever goes exactly as planned. Flexibility is key. Sometimes, a curveball—like a sick child or a last-minute client request—can throw off your day. Instead of letting it derail you, embrace the opportunity to adapt.
Staying flexible allows you to remain calm and find creative solutions, which sets an example for your team to do the same.
Infuse Your Leadership with Kindness
Leadership isn’t about being the boss; it’s about being a guide. Kindness costs nothing but can create a lasting impact. One of my proudest moments as a leader was when a team member told me they felt safe sharing their ideas with me because of my supportive attitude. Leading with kindness fosters a culture of trust and encourages people to bring their best selves to work.
The Heart of Leadership
As we head into 2025, remember this: leadership isn’t about titles or authority—it’s about the way you uplift others.
By leading with love, listening, empowering your team, and staying grounded in your “why,” you’ll not only inspire those around you but, also create a legacy of positive impact.
So, let’s make this year one where we focus on leading with care, intention, and purpose. Whether just starting your business journey or looking to grow, these leadership tips will help you make a meaningful difference in your business and beyond.
If you have questions or need support with stepping into your leadership, please schedule a free clarity session with me. Click here to schedule now.
