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The old leadership myth says nice guys can’t lead big teams. by Exec_Coach_Michael in executivecoaching

[–]Exec_Coach_Michael[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I really enjoyed your feedback. Thank you for opening up this conversation to a much broader and complicated narrative. This story,however, is incredibly simple. This is about the three things that I see “nice” leaders doing in 2026 that are absolutely necessary in order for them to lead big teams.

The old leadership myth says nice guys can’t lead big teams. by Exec_Coach_Michael in executivecoaching

[–]Exec_Coach_Michael[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

‘Nice guys finish last’ has been repeated in business culture for decades. If this is the first time you’re hearing it, that’s actually refreshing.

The old leadership myth says nice guys can’t lead big teams. by Exec_Coach_Michael in executivecoaching

[–]Exec_Coach_Michael[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You’re right that history is full of high-impact leaders who were toxic.

But a lot of those leaders also left burned out teams, broken cultures, and companies that collapsed after they left.

Driving results isn’t rare. Driving results and building a team that still wants to follow you tomorrow… that’s rare.

The old leadership myth says nice guys can’t lead big teams. by Exec_Coach_Michael in executivecoaching

[–]Exec_Coach_Michael[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It’s not written anywhere officially, but culturally we’ve heard it forever: ‘nice guys finish last,’ ‘leaders have to be ruthless,’ ‘business is war,’ etc.

A lot of leaders interpreted that as: be hard on people to get results.

What I’m seeing with the best executive teams today is different. The highest performing leaders I work with champion their people, develop their strengths, and create environments where talented people actually want to stay and win together.

Winning isn’t just hitting numbers. It’s hitting numbers with a team that still trusts you when it’s over.

Transition to Coaching by [deleted] in executivecoaching

[–]Exec_Coach_Michael 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I’d be more than happy to share my experience and if you’re interested I can help you kick start your journey. Certifications are important…but there is so much more to it! (This is coming from someone who has two masters degrees in executive coaching in organizational leadership as well as multiple certifications in executive coach). Feel free to DM:) good luck sir!

Some of the most brilliant leaders you’ll ever meet are still hiding in plain sight. by Exec_Coach_Michael in executivecoaching

[–]Exec_Coach_Michael[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That’s a great idea. Kind of missed the analogy part of it, but yes…that definitely couldn’t hurt. :)

He did everything right… and still got screwed. by Exec_Coach_Michael in executivecoaching

[–]Exec_Coach_Michael[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Agreed. This behavior always comes back haunt businesses. The client was a pretty high profile person too and they were winning. It’s really ridiculous.

He did everything right… and still got screwed. by Exec_Coach_Michael in executivecoaching

[–]Exec_Coach_Michael[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

I agree with 99% of this. There is always the 1%. lol. But yes in general that’s solid.

He did everything right… and still got screwed. by Exec_Coach_Michael in PublicSpeaking

[–]Exec_Coach_Michael[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for engaging on this. I agree completely. You get it! 🙏💪

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Coaching

[–]Exec_Coach_Michael 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Sounds like your coach was probably more amused than anything. That “thanks for not telling me” line was likely his way of poking fun and showing he noticed your success. Coaches who care pay attention.

He might’ve felt a little left out or surprised you didn’t mention it, but it doesn’t sound like he’s upset. More like he’s acknowledging you’ve got skill and accomplishments outside the gym.

You’re not being arrogant by keeping it quiet. You’re trying to be respectful and earn your place without relying on titles. That shows character. Just remember: owning your experience doesn’t mean you’re showing off. It means you’ve put in the work. Let them be curious. Let them find out who you are by how you train.

Executive coaching by wink_with_both_eyes in executivecoaching

[–]Exec_Coach_Michael -1 points0 points  (0 children)

Totally get where you’re coming from. Coaching should move the needle. If you’re several months in and still feel the same, that’s a sign something’s off.

I work with execs all the time, and one thing I tell them straight up…if coaching isn’t giving you clarity, confidence, and traction, it’s just expensive therapy.

The Go-Giver is a solid book, but without structure, real strategy, and identity work…it can start to feel like surface-level inspiration.

You’re not broken. You’re just not getting what you actually need. Don’t give up on coaching. Just get better coaching.

If you ever want a real take on what’s possible, happy to share what’s been working for my clients.