Would you rather be flexible or consistent as a leader? It’s a question I’ve been asked many times, and one I explore deeply in my new book, Flexible Leadership. At first glance, it might seem like you have to choose one or the other. But I don’t think that’s the case. In fact, I believe the best leaders are both flexible and consistent—they know how to balance these qualities to achieve remarkable results.
The Case for Consistency
When we talk about consistency, we’re talking about reliability—about showing up in the same way time and time again. And let’s face it: there are some real advantages to being consistent as a leader.
Here’s why consistency matters:
- It Builds Trust. When people know what to expect from you, they feel more confident in your leadership. That trust becomes a foundation for everything you do.
- It Builds Credibility. If you’re constantly flipping and flopping, people might start questioning how much you really know or believe in your own decisions. Consistency sends a clear signal of confidence and competence.
- It Supports Fairness. People expect fairness, and fairness requires consistency. Treating similar situations similarly helps your team feel valued and respected.
- It Brings Stability. In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, your consistency can be a source of stability and comfort for your team.
These are powerful reasons to strive for consistency. But if consistency is all you focus on, you could find yourself missing something just as important.
The Power of Flexibility
The other side of the equation is flexibility. Leadership isn’t static—it’s dynamic, just like the world we live in. Being flexible means being ready and willing to adapt to changing circumstances, new challenges, and different perspectives.
Here’s why flexibility is equally important:
- It Supports Change. Organizations don’t grow without change. Leaders who are flexible can adapt their strategies and approaches to meet the needs of the moment.
- It Aids Resilience. Life happens. Plans go awry. A flexible leader is prepared to adjust and pivot as needed, keeping the team moving forward.
- It Tackles Uncertainty. The world is full of uncertainty, and that’s not going to change. Flexibility helps you navigate the chaos with confidence and creativity.
Flexibility isn’t a luxury in leadership—it’s a necessity. But, like consistency, it’s only part of the equation.
Balancing Flexibility and Consistency
Here’s the big idea: flexibility and consistency aren’t opposites. They might create tension at times, but they’re not mutually exclusive. In fact, the most effective leaders embrace both.
The key is to know where to apply each one. Here’s how I think about it:
- Be consistent in your goals and principles. These are your anchors—the things that don’t change, no matter the situation.
- Be flexible in your approach. The way you reach those goals? That can and should change based on the circumstances.
Let’s be honest—none of us want to work for a leader who is rigid and harsh. But we also don’t want someone who is unpredictable and inconsistent. The sweet spot is finding the balance between the two. That’s where great leadership lives.
If you’re wondering whether to be flexible or consistent, here’s your answer: be both. The most effective leaders are flexible in their approach and consistent in their principles. They understand when to adapt and when to hold steady. They create stability while embracing change.
This balance isn’t always easy to find, but it’s worth striving for.
Remember: flexibility and consistency aren’t just leadership skills—they’re the tools that will help you lead with confidence, clarity, and impact.
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