The observable habits of great leaders—self-awareness, accountability, communication—are well-documented. But the private habits they cultivate behind the scenes are what truly fuel their daily effectiveness.
Danielle Harlan, CEO of The Center for Advancing Leadership and Human Potential, notes that the personal practices of leaders directly impact their professional capabilities. These foundational habits are what enable them to guide their teams with clarity and resilience.
Five Behind-the-Scenes Habits of Effective Leaders
Here are five common habits that exceptional leaders practice in their own time to maintain their high levels of performance.
1. They Define and Visualize Their Desired Outcomes
Great leaders start with a clear vision of success. For example, David Novak, founder and former CEO of Yum! Brands, visualizes his next day each night before bed. He mentally rehearses important meetings and interactions, picturing the ideal outcomes. This practice helps him prepare his responses and steer situations toward his goals.
This habit of defining daily goals and maintaining focus on key priorities is a common thread among successful leaders. It ensures their time and energy are invested in the most impactful ways.
2. They Cultivate Curiosity
Modern leadership is not about having all the answers, but about asking the right questions. Effective leaders embrace what they don't know and foster an environment where team members feel safe to point out issues or suggest improvements.
This curiosity also extends to failure. Tim Bot, founder of Bot Coaching and Consulting, observes that great leaders relentlessly analyze setbacks. They seek to understand the root cause of an issue, especially if they contributed to it, without letting ego impede the learning process.
3. They Prioritize Self-Care
Sustained leadership performance requires energy. The most effective leaders have personal interests and commitments outside of work that help them recharge. Whether through hiking, reading, or simply getting enough sleep, they invest in activities that keep them sharp.
Self-care also involves emotional regulation. Novak, for instance, practices gratitude to manage his "mood elevator," recognizing that the best decisions are made from a state of gratitude, not anger or resentment. When his mood shifts negatively, he knows it is a signal to address what is bothering him or focus on self-care.
4. They Practice Generosity
Impactful leaders understand the power of giving back. They are generous with praise, recognition, and mentorship. Novak traditionally spent about half his time developing his team, personally teaching leadership programs to thousands of employees.
This generosity extends beyond the organization. Many busy leaders make time to mentor, volunteer, and fundraise in their personal lives, finding fulfillment in contributing to the well-being of others and "paying it forward."
5. They Build Strong Communities
Leadership can be an isolating role. To counteract this, great leaders intentionally build a robust support system. This "circle of support" consists of trusted friends, family, and, crucially, peers in similar roles at other organizations.
These communities provide a safe outlet for discussing problems, gaining external perspective, and finding mutual support from others who understand the unique pressures of their position.