Why Unlearning Might Be the Boldest Leadership Move You Can Make

We often associate leadership development with learning more—new strategies, new tools, new models. But what if the next big leap in your leadership journey isn’t about more, but about less?

That’s where unlearning comes in.

What Is Unlearning—and Why Does It Matter?

Unlearning is the conscious process of letting go of beliefs, behaviors, and patterns that no longer serve us. It’s not about forgetting—it’s about choosing what not to carry forward.

If learning is about adding to our toolkit, unlearning is about making space—clearing out the noise, the clutter, the assumptions that silently hold us back. In today’s fast-changing world, the ability to unlearn and relearn is what keeps us relevant, resilient, and in demand as leaders.

“You can't fill a cup that’s already full. Sometimes the most powerful move is emptying what’s outdated—so that what’s next can find room.”

Signs It’s Time to Unlearn

Unlearning isn’t just for major career changes or reinventions. It often starts in subtle ways. Here are a few signs it might be time to unlearn something:

• You’re constantly “doing more” but seeing diminishing returns.
  
  
• A habit or mindset that once served you is now creating stress or stagnation.
  
  
• You’re growing, but your inner dialogue hasn’t caught up.
  
  

It might be the belief that you have to have all the answers. Or that leadership means never showing vulnerability. Or the habit of saying yes when your energy screams no.

The Real Challenge: Identity

Unlearning isn’t always comfortable. Why? Because many of our behaviors are tied to our identity. Letting them go can feel like losing a piece of who we are.

But here’s the reframe: you’re not losing anything. You’re making room for who you’re becoming.

How to Start Unlearning—Without Overwhelm

Let’s keep it simple. Here’s a 3-step path to start your unlearning journey:

1. Notice what’s outdated. Ask yourself: What habit, thought, or belief drains me instead of fuels me?
   
2. Name what you’re ready to release. Write it down. Give yourself permission to let it go.
   
3. Replace with intention. Try a new approach—even if it feels awkward at first. That’s how rewiring begins.
   

Want a little help with this? The Leader In Demand app includes a free unlearning toolkit: a self-assessment, a bite-sized micro-course, and podcast reflections that meet you where you are—on the go or in a quiet moment.

👉 Download the app

Final Thought: Don’t Do It Alone

Unlearning isn’t a solo sport. Share your reflections with a coach, a peer, or your team. Invite your organization into the conversation. The more we normalize unlearning, the more we unlock innovation—not just in strategy, but in how we show up.

Unlearning is the work behind the scenes that shapes the leader people feel—calm, confident, and clear.

You’re not just leading others. You’re leading yourself.

Let’s make that journey intentional.

Ready to explore your own unlearning?
🎧 Tune into the Live & Unlearn podcast or connect with me directly to start your next leadership stretch.