Leadership is about choices—the daily decisions we make that shape the culture of our schools and the experiences of our teams. Too often, however, leaders get bogged down in the reasons why something won’t work or why it’s too risky to try. This tendency to lean on caution can stifle Innovation, frustrate staff, and ultimately hold back the progress our schools need. In a world that’s constantly evolving, our leadership mindset must evolve too—from one of hesitation and reluctance to one of possibility and action.
TL/DR: Leaders often focus on reasons to say no, which limits innovation and Growth. Shifting to a “yes” mindset—finding reasons to take action instead—can transform school culture and empower teams. In 2025, leaders can say yes more by embracing new ideas, supporting professional growth, delegating effectively, encouraging positive risk-taking, and Investing in Relationships. A culture of yes is a culture of possibility and progress.
In a recent conversation with my friend Eric Lillis, he shared a powerful insight that stopped me in my tracks:
“Too many schools are busy finding excuses not to do something instead of finding reasons to take action instead.”
This quote resonated deeply with me because it shines a light on a mindset that holds so many leaders back. Far too often, leaders fall into the trap of searching for reasons to say no—whether out of fear, past experiences, or the pressure to maintain the status quo. But what if, instead, we actively looked for reasons to say yes? What if we embraced possibilities rather than shutting them down?
Shifting our mindset from saying no to seeking opportunities to say yes can transform our leadership and, more importantly, the culture of our schools. A “yes” mindset empowers teams, encourages innovation, and builds trust. When leaders look for reasons to say yes, they communicate belief in their people and their ideas, creating a culture where educators feel valued, heard, and motivated to bring their best selves to work every day.
As we move forward in 2025, here are five ways leaders can start saying yes more often:
When a team member presents a new idea, pause before defaulting to reasons why it won’t work. Instead, ask, “How could we make this happen?” Even if the idea needs refining, this approach encourages creativity and problem-solving rather than shutting down innovation at the start.
Support your teachers’ passions by saying yes to professional development opportunities, conferences, and leadership roles. Investing in their growth not only improves instructional practices but also strengthens loyalty and morale. A leader who says yes to learning sends a clear message that growth is a priority.
Saying yes to delegation isn’t just about lightening your load; it’s about empowering others. When you say yes to trusting your team with meaningful responsibilities, you build their confidence and create a pipeline of future leaders. Trusting others with significant tasks shows them that you believe in their capabilities.
Innovation requires a willingness to take risks. Encourage your team to try new approaches by saying yes to pilot programs or small-scale experiments, even if the outcome isn’t guaranteed. Establish a culture where it’s safe to fail forward, learn, and try again.
Sometimes the most impactful yes is the simplest: saying yes to a conversation, yes to listening, and yes to being present. When leaders say yes to investing time in relationships—whether with students, staff, or community members—they build trust and a stronger sense of belonging.
A leadership style focused on saying yes is about more than agreeing to every request—it’s about adopting a mindset that looks for opportunities rather than obstacles. It’s about choosing to believe in people, in possibilities, and in a future that’s better than today.
As we move forward in 2025, I challenge you to pause the next time you’re tempted to say no. Ask yourself: What if I said yes instead? The impact might surprise you.
Here’s to leading with a yes mindset and creating a culture where possibilities thrive.
Let’s lead with purpose, Clarity, and the courage to say yes more often.
If you’re ready to take your leadership team to the next level, let’s talk. Through Coaching, professional development, and leadership retreats, I help school and district leadership teams build trust, improve communication, and align their efforts for real impact. Let’s work together to set your team—and your school—up for success in the coming year.
Send me a message or visit RoadToAwesome.net to start the conversation.
Tune in this Sunday to “Leaning into Leadership” when I sit down with 7th grade social studies teacher and NCMLE conference director David James.
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