Are You Operating on Outdated Settings?

Default settings holding you back

Many leaders unknowingly operate with default settings they picked up long before entering the workplace. These internal scripts—about success, communication, or leadership—often stem from parents, early role models, or formative work experiences. But left unexamined, they can quietly steer our choices, even when we “know better.”

I’ve seen it with clients, and I’ve seen it in myself. My father’s message was clear: Do good work and let it speak for itself. No need to talk about it. And while I now coach others to promote and share their successes, I sometimes catch myself doing the opposite in my own life—downplaying wins and focusing on struggles.

This is why developing a leadership mindset shift isn’t just about learning new strategies. It’s about checking in regularly to ensure old patterns aren’t silently leading the way.

Growth isn’t just about knowing better. It’s about choosing differently—again and again.

Read More: Holding Back from Taking That Big Step? Just Do It!

Jo Ilfeld, PhD

An executive leadership coach, Jo helps C-suite leaders, executives, and high-potential managers develop the flexibility, skill, and frame of mind to meet the challenges of the next five, ten, twenty years…. and beyond. She works with individuals, teams and organizations on four core areas of leadership development. Check out Jo's bio page for more information.

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