High standards are a mark of great leadership. But when they become rigid, they can derail progress, strain relationships, and even jeopardize your career. If you’re noticing burnout, missed deadlines, or tension on your team and suspect it could be because of your high standards, it’s time to reassess your approach.

Pause and reflect. Dedicate 15 minutes to examining your standards. Are they aligned with organizational goals? Have you clearly communicated them to your team? High standards mean little if they’re misunderstood. Reevaluate what “good enough” means and adjust where necessary.

Flex where it matters. Perfection often comes at a cost. Are those extra hours fine-tuning minor details worth your team’s morale and productivity? Prioritize trust and collaboration by aligning your expectations with your team’s capacity and project objectives.

Check your culture fit. Your leadership style should complement your workplace culture. Regularly seek feedback from peers and managers. If your standards consistently clash with your organization’s overall approach to work, it might be time to adapt or explore environments better suited to your style.

Embrace productive conflict. Disagreements aren’t roadblocks—they’re opportunities. Approach conflicts with respect, listen actively, and find solutions together. True leadership isn’t about imposing perfection; it’s about fostering collaboration that drives meaningful results.
This tip is adapted from “When Your High Standards Derail Your Success,” by Anne Sugar and Karen Walker.
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