by Michelle Cummings

Most leaders want to do the right thing. They care about their people. They want to see the organization succeed. But intention alone isn’t enough. Leadership happens in the space between intention and impact – and that space can get messy. The key is regularly asking: “Does my behavior match the outcomes I’m trying to create?”

It’s easy to drift. Under pressure, we default to habits or react in ways that may not serve the team’s needs or the broader mission. You might mean to empower, but come off as controlling. You might intend to support, but end up micromanaging. Without regular reflection, even well-meaning actions can lead to unintended outcomes.

That’s where alignment comes in. Alignment means that your actions reflect both your values and the shared purpose of the team and organization. It means stepping back from time to time and asking, “Is the way I’m showing up right now helping or hindering progress?” When leaders do this consistently, trust grows and misalignment shrinks.

Aligning intention with impact doesn’t require perfection. It requires awareness. Leaders who check in with themselves, listen deeply, and invite feedback build stronger relationships and more credible influence. When your team knows you’re willing to evaluate and adjust your approach, they feel seen, supported, and safe to do the same.

This practice is also a long-game strategy. The more your day-to-day actions match the bigger picture, the more credibility and consistency you build. Your leadership becomes a steady signal – one that helps others orient, even during change or challenge.

This kind of integrity-based leadership is the focus of the Heart Module in our Core Program. It’s where leaders learn to align their behaviors with the best interest of both their people and the broader purpose they serve.