Leading with Joy: The Highest Mindset in Leadership

In my work with high-performing executives and business owners, I’ve noticed something fascinating: every leader operates out of one of three core mindsets. These mindframes don’t just shape how they lead—they define the culture they build, the energy they bring, and ultimately, the legacy they leave.

Let’s explore them.

Mindframe 1: “It’s My Right.”

This mindset sounds like:

“I’ve earned this. I deserve this seat at the table because of my expertise and track record.”

While confidence and competence are essential, entitlement is a silent team-killer. Leaders who operate from this frame rarely inspire loyalty. Their teams comply, but they don’t commit. This mindframe breeds transactional relationships and erodes trust. It’s where many talented leaders get stuck—and wonder why their teams underperform.

Mindframe 2: “I Lead to Serve.”

This mindset is often praised—and for good reason. These leaders put others first. They sacrifice personal gain to uplift their teams. They carry the weight, give credit freely, and protect their people.

It’s noble. And it works.

But here’s the hidden cost: burnout.

When service becomes suffering, when the leader always comes last, the energy that once fueled servant leadership starts to wane. The joy disappears. And the leader—ironically—becomes a liability to the very people they want to serve.

Mindframe 3: “Leading Brings Me Joy.”

This is the rarest and most powerful mindset in leadership.

Here, the leader finds fulfillment in the work. Not just in results, but in the process. Not just in wins, but even in setbacks. Leadership is no longer about rights or sacrifice—it’s about joy.

This doesn’t mean the work is easy. It means the leader has learned to find meaning in the difficulty. As one ancient example reminds us:

“For the joy set before him, Jesus endured the cross.”

That kind of joy doesn’t ignore the weight of leadership—it transforms it. And the good news? It can be learned.

6 Shifts for Leading with Joy

If you want to move from duty to delight in your leadership, here are six powerful mindset shifts to practice:

  1. Embrace Pressure as a Privilege

Pressure isn’t just a sign of responsibility—it’s a catalyst for growth. Great leaders know that high-stakes challenges forge sharper thinking, stronger character, and deeper influence. Pressure is proof that you’re being stretched to your next level.

  1. Practice Gratitude—Even in Difficulty

Not everything is good. But there’s always something good. Even in complex decisions and painful seasons, leadership offers moments of meaning, impact, and connection. Train your mind to recognize what’s still worth celebrating.

  1. Be Where Your Feet Are

Vision matters. But joy is found in the present. Learn to celebrate the current moment, not just the next milestone.

  1. Rejoice in Others’ Success

Refuse comparison. Lead with an abundance mindset, finding genuine delight in the growth and wins of others.

  1. Hold Onto Faith Through the Valleys

Leadership includes lonely, dark seasons. Choose hope. Even when progress is invisible, trust that fruit is growing underground.

  1. Refuse to Be Lonely at the Top

Connection is not optional. Build intentional relationships with peers, mentors, and your team. Isolation is a leadership killer.

Choose One Shift. Start Today.

You don’t need to master all six today. Just pick one. Practice it with intention. Notice how it affects your mindset, your energy, and your team. Joy in leadership isn’t reserved for the lucky few—it’s available to those who train for it.

Lead well. And may you lead with joy.