James R. Rector
Publisher, Profiles in Leadership Journal
Give a hammer to someone, and every problem looks like a nail. Too many leaders repeat the same response no matter the situation: more data, more pressure, more enthusiasm. The result is often broken glass.
Strong leaders stock a full toolbox. They know when to coach, when to hold accountable, when to listen, and when to decide. They do not swing harder with the wrong tool. They switch to the right one.
This requires awareness. Before reacting, pause and ask: Is this a nail, a screw, or a fragile pane of glass? Then choose your tool.
At Home
Parents recognize the same test. A child struggling with homework might need encouragement one night and quiet accountability the next. Using the wrong approach repeatedly frustrates everyone. Families thrive when leaders know how to reach for the right tool.
Your question: What tool do you tend to overuse, and which one could you practice reaching for this week?
About the series: The 3-Minute Leader™ is a weekly micro-essay for emerging and promotable executives.
James Rector
James Rector is the founder and publisher of Profiles in Leadership Journal, a publication that has honored over 2,500 leaders in its 27-year history. His work focuses on spotlighting individuals whose character, courage, and quiet consistency shape the future of leadership.
