Tips to go From Diagnosis to Direction

Sometimes knowing what to do is not enough. One day during a long commute I hit a really large pot hole. My car jerked aggressively, and I knew that something was wrong. Immediately, the smooth ride I had been experiencing became bumpy and jarring. I pulled off the road, got out, and inspected my car. My immediate observation was a flat tire. In that moment, I knew my tire needed to be replaced, and I did not have the skills or the tools to do anything about it. I knew what to do, but I did not know how to do it.

Great leaders can identify what needs to be done, as I immediately diagnosed my flat tire, and often they don't have the skills or tools to do anything about it.

Even with all the right tools and being taught how to do it, changing a tire would have been a massive challenge for me. I was on the side of the road, frustrated, overwhelmed, and aware that one wrong move could make the situation worse. What I really needed in that moment was support, guidance, and someone who knew the process to help me move forward safely and confidently.

Leadership works the same way.

Great leaders can often see the problem. They can name what needs to change, identify what isn’t working, and feel the urgency to act. But knowing what to do doesn’t automatically translate into knowing how to do it, especially in complex, high-stakes environments.

And just like that flat tire, leadership challenges rarely show up at a convenient time. They surface in the middle of competing priorities, accountability pressures, and real human impact. Without the right support, leaders are left stuck working harder, second-guessing decisions, and hoping the ride smooths out on its own.

That’s where coaching matters.

Effective leadership growth doesn’t come from being handed a professional article and being sent on your way. It comes from having a trusted partner who helps you assess the situation, choose the right tools, and apply them with confidence so the fix is not just quick, but lasting. Thank goodness for Roadside Assistance!

Leadership isn’t about powering through the bumps alone. It’s about building the capacity to navigate them and getting back on the road with clarity, purpose, and momentum and knowing that you do not and should not do it alone!

What I Learned:

• Peer Support: Build a leadership village with other leaders for thought partnership and troubleshooting. This provides insight into how others are navigating similar challenges.

• Mentorship: Partner with an Experienced Leader to learn from the trials and errors of others by connecting with a leader who has already done what you are striving to do.

• Ask for Help: Do not hesitate to call “roadside assistance” for feedback and guidance. Don’t wait stranded on the side of the road, you may be surprised by how many people are willing and ready to support you.

Go forth and LeaD with purpose!