Ep. 54: Identity Shifts Required for Expanded Leadership Scope

In Episode 54 of Grounded and Aligned™, Karen examines a recurring challenge among executives who have recently stepped into broader or more senior roles. While early strategies often center on protecting time and establishing new workflows, they are insufficient without an internal shift in identity.

This episode addresses how self-concept silently governs authority, decision-making, and team dynamics—especially when others still treat the leader as if they are in a previous or lesser role.

Karen looks at:

• The disconnect between external title and internal identity when assuming broader mandates

• Why behavior change is unsustainable without a corresponding shift in self-concept

• The structural consequences of remaining in a delivery mindset instead of thinking bigger picture

• How senior-level performance is judged more on decision than output

• The unspoken cues that shape how peers, teams, and stakeholders assess executive presence

“In a new role, most leaders try to change what they do before they change how they see themselves.” - Karen Gombault

Executives stepping into roles with broader remit must confront not just new responsibilities but also internal beliefs that are incompatible with senior-level leadership. Without recalibrating how they view their own authority, efforts to change behavior, influence outcomes, or lead teams often revert to effort-heavy tactics that dilute impact and create confusion about ownership.

Download the associate resource, The Identity Lag.

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