Issue 47: The Kind of Leadership that Actually Moves People

ISSUE 47

26 JUNE 2025 | READ ONLINE

Hey Reader,

Let’s be honest. There’s nothing wrong with a good checklist.
(You know I love a tidy box-tick.)

But this week I found myself wondering:

When did we start confusing good leadership with good admin?

It’s easy to run a tight ship. It’s harder (but way more powerful) to build something people believe in.

And that’s not just a vibe.
It’s backed by research.

The difference between getting things done … and getting people engaged

I came across this new study by Larry Campbell (2025) comparing two leadership styles you’ve probably experienced:

Transactional: structured, measurable, clear expectations.
Transformational: vision-led, human-focused, purpose-fueled.

The research found this:

Transactional leaders often achieve results, but are primarily driven by external incentives.
Transformational leaders? They drive emotional, cognitive, and behavioral engagement.

Which means people don’t just show up. They light up. They contribute with heart, not just habit.

P.S. I discuss this in Chapter 9 of my upcoming book, Clarity in Chaos: Lead with Purpose in Disruptive Times.

Join the waitlist here.

Quick gut-check for your own leadership

Lately, I’ve been asking myself:

“Where am I managing performance … but missing the connection?”

That’s not a failure. It’s just a recalibration.

And honestly, most high achievers I work with tend to drift into transaction mode when things get busy.

(Totally human. Totally fixable.)

But when we remember to lead with clarity and conviction?
People respond differently. They take ownership. They start to believe in the thing they’re part of.

That’s the shift we’re after.

If you’re in a “heads down” season …

You don’t need to do more.
You just need to remember why it matters.

Here are two questions that might help:

Where could I invite contribution instead of issuing instruction?
What story am I telling through how I show up?

You might be surprised how fast things unlock when you ask.

Try this

Before your next big conversation this week, try this:

Lead with the why.
Then let the how take shape together.

And if something lands?
I’d love to hear about it - just hit reply.

—

If you’re curious about how this shows up in your own leadership style, I’ve got tools and coaching resources inside Purpose Pathfinders. Might be worth a peek.

Until next week,

— Megan

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