Lisa Bartlett

How did you learn to lead in your career?

I’ll confess: I’m still learning every single day.

While I know I’m better at leading than I was when I first started, it’s very clear that this is still a work in progress for me.

I’ve often wondered whether earning an MBA—or even majoring in business in college—would have made leadership come more naturally. Would I feel more confident? More equipped? More instinctive in my decisions?

The more I reflect on my journey, though, I realize that while I may have developed a large and useful skill set, leading a small team—where there’s nowhere to run and nowhere to hide—isn’t something that has ever felt completely natural to me.

Of course, I’ve done the “homework.” I’ve read the books. I love a good leadership or entrepreneurship podcast. Over the years, I’ve worked intentionally to evolve my management style. In the beginning, I leaned a little strict. Structure feels safe. Clear rules = efficiency.

But over time, I’ve shifted toward leading with generosity and thoughtfulness.

One mantra I repeat to my team is: “I can’t read your mind.” If something isn’t working or you need support, I might see a few signs—but I might not. I want communication to go both ways. Leadership, for me, has become less about directing and more about creating space for honesty.

Learning to lead with vulnerability and openness has generally served me well. It just doesn’t always come easily.

I’m an open book in many areas of my life (evidence: this blog). But when it comes to my business, I am fiercely protective—sometimes with an intensity that surprises even me. When my team and I are aligned, that protectiveness becomes fuel. It creates loyalty, momentum, and shared purpose.

But when challenges are internal, that same instinct can make me overprotective. And that’s where the real growth happens. Leadership isn’t tested when everything is smooth; it’s refined when things feel uncomfortable.

What I’m learning is this: leadership isn’t a degree you earn once. It’s a practice. It’s awareness. It’s adjusting. It’s owning when you get it wrong and trying again tomorrow.

And maybe the point isn’t to become a “natural” leader. Maybe the point is to become a conscious one.

What has been your most important leadership lesson?
And did it come naturally to you… or did you have to grow into it, too?
I’d love to hear your lessons learned as we all continue to learn and grow.