There’s a phrase that, when uttered in a meeting or workplace, makes me cringe every time: “We always do it this way.” It’s a mindset that can stall progress, dismiss innovation, and slowly erode a team’s ability to adapt and grow. It’s not just about being resistant to change—it’s about valuing comfort over improvement, familiarity over evolution. And in leadership, allowing this mentality to persist can be a quiet but corrosive mistake.
At its core, leadership isn’t about preserving the status quo; it’s about recognizing when things need to shift, evolve, and improve. That requires humility—the ability to step back and admit that just because something has worked before doesn’t mean it’s the best or only way forward.
Why ‘We Always Do It This Way’ Is a Leadership Trap
When teams fall into this mindset, they risk shutting out new ideas and perspectives that could strengthen them in the long run. Even the most successful teams, ones that have built a winning formula, eventually plateau if they refuse to welcome change. I’ve seen it happen firsthand—talented groups with a history of success start declining, not because they lack ability but because they’ve stopped listening to fresh voices and considering alternative ways of doing things.
This is where humility in leadership becomes critical. True leadership is not about clinging to what has worked in the past, but about continuously learning, adapting, and embracing new insights—even when they come from unexpected sources. A leader who operates with humility understands that great ideas can come from anywhere, and that empowering others to challenge the norm often leads to the strongest outcomes.
Making Room for Creativity and Growth
One of the biggest casualties of the “We always do it this way” mentality is creativity. When people don’t feel like their ideas will be heard or considered, they stop contributing. Creativity thrives in an environment where experimentation is encouraged, where new ideas are met with curiosity instead of resistance.
This concept reminds me of the work of Charles L. Whitfield and his teachings on reconnecting with the inner child. Whitfield speaks about the importance of creativity in healing and growth, and how tapping into that sense of curiosity and exploration allows individuals to break free from limiting beliefs. In leadership, this means fostering an environment where people feel safe to voice new ideas, challenge old methods, and engage in innovation without fear of being shut down.
I’ve seen teams transformed when leaders intentionally create space for questioning old ways of thinking. Encouraging “What if?” conversations, bringing in fresh perspectives, and being open to untested solutions is what moves organizations forward. When leaders model this behavior, they show their teams that evolution isn’t just necessary—it’s valued.
Leading with Humility: Challenging the Status Quo Without Disrespecting the Past
Humility in leadership isn’t about dismissing the past. It’s about acknowledging that while history offers valuable lessons, it shouldn’t become a cage that prevents progress. A leader grounded in humility doesn’t bulldoze over existing processes but instead approaches them with curiosity: “Why was it done this way? Does it still serve us? Could it be better?”
This shift in mindset fosters a culture where questioning isn’t seen as an attack, but rather an opportunity. It also prevents the complacency that often sneaks into successful teams. Just because something worked before doesn’t mean it will work forever. Change isn’t a threat—it’s an invitation to improve.
Moving Forward: Encouraging a Culture of Growth
Breaking the cycle of “We always do it this way” requires intention. It requires leaders who model openness, who invite diverse perspectives, and who value adaptability over rigidity. Here’s how leaders can create that culture:
- Encourage honest reflection – Regularly assess whether existing processes are still effective or if they need to evolve.
- Create psychological safety – Ensure team members feel comfortable bringing up new ideas without fear of dismissal or ridicule.
- Reward innovation – Recognize and celebrate those who challenge the norm in a productive way.
- Lead by example – Show your team that you, too, are willing to learn, question, and adapt.
The best teams, the ones that stay successful over time, are those that embrace change rather than fear it. Leadership, at its core, is about guiding that evolution with humility, curiosity, and a willingness to listen.
So, the next time someone says, “We always do it this way,” I challenge you to ask, “But is it still the best way?” That one question could be the spark that ignites meaningful change.