How one simple shift in thinking transformed a results-focused boss into a leader people wanted to follow, boosting team innovation and slashing turnover in the process.
The story
Before I walked into that leadership workshop, I was that boss who thought I had it all figured out. Numbers were up, deadlines were met – but something was missing. My team seemed distant, turnover was climbing, and innovative ideas? They were as rare as a quiet day at the office.
Then I discovered cognitive empathy. Not the touchy-feely kind where you absorb everyone’s emotions, but the practical skill of truly getting why people think and act the way they do. It changed everything.
Now, I see the whole picture. When Sarah from marketing seems resistant to a new project, I understand it’s because she’s worried about resource allocation based on past experiences. Instead of pushing harder, we have a real conversation about solutions. When the dev team looks overwhelmed, I know it’s not just about the workload – it’s about their need for clearer direction and creative autonomy.
The results? My team’s engagement has skyrocketed. People share ideas freely, solve problems creatively, and actually want to stick around. All because I learned to see things from their perspective.
Want to develop this superpower yourself? Check out “A Practical EmPath: Rewire Your Mind.” It’s packed with real techniques to build your cognitive empathy muscles. No fluff, just practical tools that transform how you lead and connect with your team. Trust me – your future self [and your team] will thank you.
