The six leadership styles

SIX APPROACHES. NO PERFECT LEADERSHIP STYLE.

We all develop natural approaches to leading people and responding to challenges. These tendencies are shaped by our experiences, capabilities and the situations in which we have learned to succeed.

The six martial arts-inspired leadership styles provide a practical way to explore these differences. They are not rigid personality types or scientifically validated psychological classifications. Most leaders demonstrate characteristics of several styles.

The important question is not which style you belong to. It is whether your current approach is helping you achieve the right outcome.

The MMA Fighter is comfortable taking initiative, making decisions and creating momentum. This leader can be effective when situations require quick action and people need clear direction.

Reflection question

When is making a quick decision your greatest strength, and when could it prevent others from contributing?

Strengths
Decisiveness, speed, initiative, clarity and willingness to take responsibility.
Potential blind spots
Impatience, insufficient consultation, moving too quickly and limiting the contribution of others.
When it helps
Crises, urgent decisions, turnarounds and situations requiring immediate direction.
When it may limit effectiveness
Complex decisions requiring broad commitment, shared ownership or careful exploration.

Find your starting point

WHICH APPROACHES FEEL NATURAL TO YOU?

The 24-scenario assessment explores your tendencies across all six styles. Treat the result as a reflection of your current preferences, not a fixed identity.

Explore this idea further

Conversations on self-awareness and adaptation

Episode 30

From Doubt to Clarity: The Real Leadership Journey with Marc A. Pitman

Self-awareness and feedback
Episode 29

Business as Unusual: Leading When Predictability Disappears with Dennis Akkerman

Adaptability
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