7 Behavioural Shifts That Help You Lead Smarter

Leafcutter NZ Team
Jun 4
2 min read

At Leafcutter, we support busy business owners and community leaders across New Zealand. Whether it’s simplifying systems, building capability, or securing funding, we’re often having the same conversation, people are tired. The to-do list feels never-ending. Motivation dips. Clarity gets lost in the chaos.

We recently came across a course covering seven behavioural themes that help people stay clear, motivated, and focused. The core ideas sparked some great thinking. So we’ve broken them down with our own perspective and some practical actions you can take into your business or leadership role today.

These aren’t big self-improvement projects. They’re small shifts. They can help you lead with more ease and energy, even when things feel messy or uncertain.

1. Make the decision

Sitting in indecision is exhausting. When you choose a direction, energy flows again, even if the decision isn’t perfect.

Try this: Write a short list of decisions you’re currently avoiding. Ask yourself: “What would I choose if I had to decide by the end of today?” Often, the answer’s already there.

2. Reconnect to your why

Purpose creates momentum. When you’re clear on why you’re doing the work, it becomes easier to keep going, and to bring others along with you.

Try this: Take five minutes to jot down what your work is really about. Revisit that when things feel heavy or unclear.

3. Reinforce helpful beliefs

We’re all wired by the stories we tell ourselves. Choose ones that support growth, connection, and progress, not just survival.

Try this: If you catch yourself thinking, “I’m not good at this,” add: “...yet.” A small shift in language creates space for growth.

4. Learn from the past, then move on

Mistakes happen. What matters is how quickly you learn the lesson and carry on.

Try this: When something doesn’t go to plan, debrief with your team or support network. Extract the insight, not the drama.

5. Build momentum

Progress doesn’t need to be dramatic. Small, repeated actions move things forward far more than bursts of unsustainable effort.

Try this: Set a timer for 15 minutes and tackle something you’ve been putting off. Momentum is built by doing, not waiting.

6. Stay grounded in uncertainty

Uncertainty is part of leadership. Resisting it burns energy. Accepting it gives you space to respond rather than react.

Try this: In moments of doubt, ask: “What’s the next right step?” You don’t need to know everything, just the next thing.

7. Let go of the outcome

Yes, results matter, but they’re not always in your control. Energy spent obsessing over outcomes can be better spent on aligned, consistent action.

Try this: Celebrate effort. Showing up, sending the email, having the hard conversation, that’s where your power is.

You don’t need to overhaul your mindset to benefit from behavioural science. Just a few simple shifts can help you find more clarity, consistency, and calm all of which help your business thrive.

At Leafcutter Business Support, we support New Zealand businesses with admin, HR and recruitment, funding and grants, bookkeeping, marketing, and communications. Our team brings practical expertise and fresh energy, so you can spend less time in the weeds and more time leading with confidence.