How to Get Your Team to Think Like Leaders

One of the biggest frustrations I hear from senior leaders is:
"I just wish my team would take more ownership!"

They want people who don’t just follow instructions but think for themselves, solve problems, and make decisions confidently. Because when employees think like leaders, the whole business runs more efficiently—less waiting around, less micromanaging, and more progress.

The secret to making this happen? Intrapreneurship.

What is Intrapreneurship?

Intrapreneurship is all about employees thinking and acting like business owners—even when they’re not. It means taking initiative, solving challenges, and stepping up rather than waiting to be told what to do.

When people work this way, you see real benefits:
✔ Better decision-making – Less back and forth, more action.
✔ More engagement – People feel part of something bigger.
✔ Faster problem-solving – No more “I’ll check with my manager” delays.
✔ Stronger business results – When employees take ownership, the company thrives.

But how do you actually get your team to think like this?

How to Encourage Your Team to Step Up

1. Let Them Make Decisions

If people have to check with five different people before taking action, they’ll stop trying. Give them space to make decisions and trust them to figure things out. Mistakes will happen, but they’ll learn and improve—just like leaders do.

2. Stop Micromanaging

Nobody steps up when they feel like they’re being watched all the time. Instead of controlling every little detail, set clear expectations, then let them run with it. When people feel ownership over their work, they naturally become more responsible.

3. Encourage Ideas and Innovation

If employees feel like their ideas don’t matter, they’ll stop sharing them. Create a culture where new ideas are welcomed, even if they don’t always work. The most successful businesses are built on trying, failing, learning, and improving.

4. Help Them See the Bigger Picture

People are more likely to take ownership when they understand why their work matters. Help them see how their role fits into the company’s success, and they’ll be more motivated to make a difference.

5. Lead by Example

If you want your team to step up, show them how it’s done. Be proactive, take responsibility, and embrace challenges head-on. When employees see this mindset in action, they’re more likely to adopt it themselves.

Want to Inspire Your Team?

If you’re looking for a way to get your team thinking and working more independently, I can help. My sessions give teams the tools and confidence to take ownership, make decisions, and perform at their best. Get in touch today.

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