Walking Leadership: How to Lead Side by Side

💡 What’s the leadership trait that makes you trust someone the most?

Over the years, I’ve worked with many leaders. Each brought something unique—authenticity, wisdom, authority, care, service.

But when I look back, the ones who left the deepest mark weren’t the ones standing above, armed with titles.

They were grounded. They walked with their people.

The Turning Point

For a long time, I thought leadership began with a title. I waited for that promotion, that recognition, that stamp of approval to finally call myself a leader.

The shift came when a leader I deeply admired handed me a copy of Dare to Lead by Brené Brown many years ago. That book cracked something open.

I realized leadership wasn’t about being given authority—it was about showing up with courage, presence, and connection long before the title ever arrived.

And yet, living this truth is harder than it sounds. Why?

Because authority feels safe.

• It gives structure.

• It commands attention.

• It signals power.

But in today’s world, that model isn’t just limited—it’s outdated.

Why Authority Alone Falls Short Today

We live in a world where information is everywhere—even AI can provide the “right” answers in seconds.

What people want from leaders today isn’t more authority. It’s connection.

✨ A leader who creates safety makes people speak.
✨ A leader who listens first earns trust faster.
✨ A leader who values people keeps loyalty—something no title can buy.

This is why grounded leadership matters now more than ever.

3 Simple Ways to Practice Grounded Leadership

1️⃣ Leave the title in the room. Speak as a person, not a position. It reminds your team that it’s safe to challenge, contribute, and co-create.

2️⃣ Walk with your team. Don’t lead from a distance. Join conversations, ask about life beyond work, and open doors for genuine connection.

3️⃣ Show your work-in-progress. Share drafts, half-formed ideas, or even mistakes. It signals you’re part of the process, not just the final judge.

And most importantly — send frequent invitations. Ask questions that open new perspectives, not just confirm agreement.

The best leaders invite—they don’t command.

Because once the title fades—and it always does—followers fade too.

But leaders who walk with their people leave behind trust, ideas, and momentum that lasts.

💬 What’s one way you can practice grounded leadership this week?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Yina Han, Founder of New Bloom Consulting & Coaching and featured top voice in Singapore’s SG60 by New in Asia, is a seasoned HR leader who delivers 300+ coaching hours annually to clients in 6+ countries, guiding them through global career transitions. She also trains leaders at top luxury and Fortune 100 brands to elevate leadership impact, and drive sustainable career success.

Connect with Yina to transform your career with confidence and clarity.