I’ve been reflecting lately on one of the hardest tensions in leadership, a tension I find myself wrestling with more than I’d like to admit. 

At Black Kanyon, we’re working to clarify our 9 Principles of Exceptionalism which defines what high performance truly looks like for our leaders. I can see that standard clearly in my mind. It’s what formed Black Kanyon from the very beginning, and I’ve been fortunate enough to see it from day one. I know where we’re headed, and I know what it will take to get there. So naturally, I’ve been pushing our leadership teams toward that level. 

When you’re the one holding the clearer picture, it’s easy to lean too far into urgency, accountability, and expectations. I’ve felt myself doing exactly that. My intentions are right; I want our teams to operate at their highest potential. I want them to grow. I want them to embrace a level of excellence that will change the trajectory of their lives and the people at their companies. I have experienced this for myself and have seen it happen to others.  

But here is something I need to own: 
In my push, I haven’t always communicated appreciation for the effort people are already giving.  

They’re giving full effort.  
They’re showing up. 
They’re doing the work even without the full clarity I carry. 

 
And while the standard is rising, and needs to rise, people still need to feel valued along the way. Nothing fake, just true, authentic appreciation.  

The irony is that I know this personally. A simple acknowledgment from my own leader makes me feel appreciated and valued more than he may imagine. In return, I bring positive energy to the people around me, and it makes me want to do anything possible to help the team win.  

So here’s where I’m recalibrating, and maybe this will resonate with other leaders too: 

People rise to higher standards faster when they feel believed in, not just pushed. 
Challenge without care becomes pressure. 
Care without challenge becomes complacency. 
The real work is balancing both at the same time. 

It’s not easy, but it’s the kind of leader I want to become and what is required to do great things.