Why High-Agency Leaders Get Ahead
Some people wait for permission, complain about obstacles, and feel stuck when things don’t go their way. Others find solutions, take ownership, and make things happen no matter the circumstances. That second group? They’re high-agency leaders.
High-agency leaders don’t accept limitations—they navigate around them. Instead of saying, “I can’t do this because…” they ask, “How can I make this happen?” They create options, influence outcomes, and push forward when others stop.
This mindset isn’t just valuable—it’s essential for leadership. If you’re waiting for someone to tell you what to do, you’re not leading. High-agency leaders take action, solve problems, and inspire others to do the same.
Signs of a High-Agency Leader
They don’t wait for perfect conditions. They work with what they have and figure things out as they go.
They take ownership. They don’t blame external factors; they focus on what they can control.
They challenge constraints. They question, push, and look for ways to improve the system.
They influence without authority. Even when they don’t have formal power, they rally people and get things done.
They solve problems instead of dwelling on them. Complaining is easy. High-agency leaders take action.
How to Build More Agency as a Leader
Stop Waiting for Permission – If you see a problem, take steps to fix it. You don’t need a title or approval to make an impact.
Ask Better Questions – Instead of “Why is this happening to me?” ask, “What can I do about it?”
Control What You Can – You can’t change everything, but you can change your approach, your effort, and your attitude.
Embrace Discomfort – High-agency people take action even when they feel uncertain. Growth happens outside your comfort zone.
Own Your Outcomes – No excuses, no blaming. Even when things go wrong, take responsibility for your response and next steps.
The Leadership Edge
High-agency leaders rise quickly because companies don’t need more managers who just follow orders—they need leaders who create solutions.
If you’re stepping into leadership, start building this mindset now. Take ownership, find a way forward, and be the person who makes things happen.
Where have you seen high agency in action? Log into Boundless and share how you’ve taken ownership and driven results.