5 Workplace Resolutions Every Leader Should Make
Some of you love New Year’s resolutions. Some of you don’t. I get it. But whether it’s January or July, there’s never a bad time to set intentions for how you lead. Here are five workplace “resolutions” you can make any time of the year — ones that will pay off for both you and your team.
1. Model Self-Compassion & Boundaries
This one might sound soft, but it’s critical. Your team doesn’t need a leader who’s available 24/7 — they need a leader who shows them it’s okay to live a balanced life. By drawing boundaries for yourself, you give your people permission to do the same.
Practical moves? Establish “no-meeting” days. Respect vacation time. Shut the laptop at a reasonable hour. Employees are watching what you do far more than what you say.
2. Show People Their Work Matters
When employees understand why their work matters, fulfillment skyrockets — and turnover drops. In fact, a meQuilibrium study found that when managers connect employees’ work to purpose, it can reduce intention to quit by up to 50%.
Don’t assume they see it like you do. Explain it. Connect the dots. And let them know you appreciate their contribution.
3. Build Trust by Creating a Safe, Healthy Workplace
Trust doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built through transparency, communication, and consistency. Small actions — like regular check-ins or feedback sessions — strengthen relationships and eliminate ambiguity.
Don’t have time? You’ll pay for it later — either in lost productivity or employee turnover. Make the time.
4. Stop Ignoring AI — Start Leveraging It
AI isn’t going anywhere. And it’s not about replacing people — it’s about removing the repetitive clutter from their plates so they can do higher-value work. Use it for tasks, communication drafts, even brainstorming. I use it every day, and it helps me focus on strategy.
5. Get Intentional About Employee Engagement
Employee engagement doesn’t improve by accident. Run a survey. Study the results. Make a plan. Then communicate it — and over-communicate it. Employees want to be heard, and they want to see that what they say drives real change.
Navigating Resolutions with Strategic Support
Maybe you read this list and thought, “I’d love to, but I don’t have the bandwidth.” That’s exactly where Salt & Light Advisors comes in. We help leaders implement these resolutions in ways that fit your culture, capacity, and goals.
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