Creating Your Path: How Trusting Your Instincts Unlocks Leadership Creativity
- Liza Engel
- Apr 28
- 3 min read
Have you ever felt that quiet nudge inside — the one urging you to do things differently, even when “the book” says otherwise?
That nudge isn’t rebellion. It’s creativity in leadership. And it’s where authentic human-centered leadership begins.
A Story About Trusting Instincts Over Scripts
Years ago, I faced one of the most challenging responsibilities a leader can encounter: letting a talented employee go during a mandated downsizing.
There was a protocol for how it should be done — a structured, HR-approved checklist designed to minimize legal risk. It was well-intentioned but impersonal: surprise the employee with a meeting with HR sitting next to you, and follow a tightly scripted conversation.
As I read the standard instructions, something didn’t sit right. I thought about my father’s stories—tales of bureaucratic leadership in which people were treated as replaceable, and humanity was left outside the door. And I asked myself: Is there a better way?
I decided to trust my instincts.
Instead of following the script, I chose a more human approach, fully aligned with a progressive HR leader.
I met with the employees one-on-one first, giving them space, dignity, and empathy before introducing formal steps. This situation was unique because the individual had an HR background. They didn’t need a cold surprise; they deserved empathy.
The result? The conversation unfolded with mutual respect — and my HR partner appreciated the initiative so much that they adapted the process for future cases. What started as a risk became a new better practice.
It taught me something I’ve carried ever since:
Creativity in leadership isn’t about ignoring the rules — it’s about improving them.
Why Creativity Matters Most When It’s Hardest
When emotions run high, it’s tempting to retreat to “what’s always been done” or “what needs to be done.”
Neuroscience shows that our most creative solutions emerge when we feel a sense of autonomy and psychological safety — both for ourselves and those we lead. You can reclaim this sense by asking yourself, “How can I do this most humanly and respectfully?”.
According to Self-Determination Theory, creativity thrives when three core human needs are met:
Autonomy: Feeling we have a choice.
Competence: Feeling capable and effective.
Relatedness: Feeling connected to others.
In difficult moments—like delivering hard news—scripted procedures often overlook precisely these needs.
Stepping outside the playbook, thoughtfully and intentionally, doesn’t just create better experiences. It strengthens trust, builds loyalty, and protects your brand reputation — because every person we part ways with remains a future customer, client, or ambassador. How we treat people echoes far beyond the moment.
Practical Takeaways: How to Creatively Lead Through Any Conversation
If you want to create your leadership path — without losing structure or professionalism — start here:
1. Trust Your Instincts First — Then Consult the Playbook
Your instincts often spot missing humanity that standardized processes haven’t considered. Once you notice it, ask: “How can I honor both the system and the individual?”
2. Start With Empathy, Not Process
Begin with a personal conversation before formal steps. When people feel seen and respected, even tough outcomes can be handled with more grace.
3. Co-Create Dignity
Whenever possible, involve the other person. Ask: “What would help you navigate this transition best?”
Empowering them preserves dignity — and trust.
4. Advocate for Systemic Improvement
If you find a better way, don’t keep it to yourself. Leadership isn’t just about improving yourself individually—it’s about raising the standard for everyone.
Reflect: How Could You Create Your Path?
Where in your leadership or communication today are you simply following a script?
What if you could redesign the experience to be more human, thoughtful, and creative?
Creativity in leadership isn’t just about new ideas.
It’s about finding better ways to honor the people we serve.
Creative leadership begins when you trust that quiet nudge inside — and choose to create a better path.
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