57) How to Develop New Leadership Skills and Habits

Leadership growth does not happen by accident. In this episode, I walk through the exact process I use to intentionally develop new leadership skills and habits. I start by explaining why leadership development is different from things like fitness or productivity and why copying what works for someone else is rarely effective. Instead, I share how I begin with a clear picture of the kind of leader I want to become, identify the gaps between where I am and where I want to be, and then build a bridge to get there one step at a time.

I talk about why I only work on three leadership habits at a time and how a short daily review is the real engine behind lasting change. You will hear how I evaluate where I had opportunities to practice, where I missed it, and where I can anticipate future situations to apply what I am working on. I also share how keeping an archive and a "someday" list prevents growth from becoming overwhelming while still maintaining momentum.

We talk about feedback loops and why leadership growth should never happen in isolation. I explain how I ask my team for specific feedback, why having a coach matters, and how intentional practice actually rewires your brain over time. This episode is a practical framework for leaders who want real change, not just more information.

If you feel stuck or unsure where to start, I offer complimentary 25-minute coaching calls for podcast listeners. We will identify your biggest leadership hurdle and create a clear next step forward. You can schedule that call at ericdingler.com/call