The Controlling Leader Cover Up

During a meeting with a business owner, they mentioned that one of their managers was “great”—but always had to be in control.

I understood immediately. I’ve been there. Control often looks like confidence: someone who takes charge, gets things done, and makes things happen.

But underneath, it’s often something very different.

What you really have is a leader who struggles with trust and fears being blamed.

Their instinct to take over everything is usually rooted in past experiences—trusting others and getting burned. So now, they overcompensate by doing it all themselves, convinced it's the only way to ensure things are done “right.”

The problem? That kind of leadership slowly suffocates the potential of the team.

Team members begin to withdraw, stop offering ideas, and hold back their talents—not because they lack capability, but because there’s no room to grow under a leader who won’t let go.

John Maxwell refers to this as The Law of the Lid: a leader’s ability sets the ceiling for their team’s potential. If a leader is functioning at a Level 5, their team can only reach Level 4 at best.

Why does this matter?

It’s important because we need transformational leaders. Leaders who are willing to:

• Take constructive feedback

• Confront their blindspots

• Do the inner work for intentional growth

Are you ready to take the limits off your leadership? Start with these 3 things:

1. Create a culture of feedback

Build a space where your team feels safe giving you honest feedback—without fear of backlash. Not just in structured meetings, but in dedicated sessions devoted to conversations that foster connection and trust.

2. Get a coach

Leadership is lonely. Leaders don’t often have a place to express their frustrations, fears, and failures. A coach can provide guidance and motivation.

3. Know your communication style—and theirs

The best leaders aren’t just great talkers—they’re intentional communicators who know how to connect with different personalities. Understanding communication styles is essential for collaboration and impact.

If you are a leader who would like to raise your leadership lid, I’d love to support you. Let’s work together to make progress, increase productivity, and align purpose for lasting impact.