The answer isn’t to push harder

We’ve all been there. Frustrated at a door we can’t seem to open, pushing with all our might, only to realize the sign says “PULL.” We laugh at ourselves, yet we repeat the same mistake with our teams.

We push. We push for compliance, for deadlines met, for tasks checked off the list. We push harder when things get tough, believing sheer force will get us through.

But what if the answer isn't pushing harder? What if it's about pulling?

People aren't meant to be forced open. They respond to a different kind of energy, an invitation to step forward, to engage, to contribute their best.

This is the power of intrinsic motivation: the desire to do something because it's interesting, challenging, or personally meaningful. It's the difference between compliance and commitment, between going through the motions and truly excelling.

Shifting from a push to a pull mindset requires letting go of control, embracing vulnerability, and trusting your team’s capabilities.

It means:

Asking, not just telling: “What are your thoughts on this?” “How can we make this project more engaging for you?” “What challenges do you foresee?”

Listening, not just dictating: Paying attention to feedback, being open to new ideas, and valuing diverse perspectives.

Creating space for growth: Providing opportunities for learning, encouraging experimentation, and celebrating both successes and failures.

This shift in approach is what fosters a culture of trust, collaboration, and innovation. Because when you stop pushing and start pulling, something remarkable happens. People open up. They share their ideas, their concerns, their passions. They take ownership, solve problems, and go above and beyond.

It’s like that moment when you finally pull on the door, and it glides open effortlessly. Suddenly, the path forward is clear.

The next time you're tempted to push harder, remember: the most powerful force in leadership isn't brute strength,

It’s the pull of inspiration.