Leaders Who Let Go to Grow: Unlocking Success Through Autonomous Leadership

Let Go To Grow: How Great Leaders Win Through Autonomy A new leadership strategy is emerging as a key driver of success for businesses on the cusp of rapid growth or transformation, according to recent data from EXCELR8, a hybrid enterprise SaaS and management consulting firm. The approach, known as "autonomy," involves giving employees more freedom to make decisions and take ownership of their work. At EXCELR8, which works with organizations across industries and geographies, the data in its AI-powered performance and productivity platform reveals that a lack of autonomy and effective delegation ranks among the top three employee complaints. This is particularly true for companies undergoing significant change or expansion. "A decentralized, highly autonomous environment is not just beneficial; it's often necessary," said Brent Gleeson, Contributing Author at Forbes and expert in leadership and performance management. "In business, as on the battlefield, speed, adaptability, and trust in your teammates determine success." Gleeson, a former Navy SEAL, notes that his team's ability to thrive in autonomous environments was crucial to their survival and success. He believes this principle can be applied to businesses facing similar challenges. The benefits of autonomy extend beyond employee satisfaction. Companies that adopt an autonomous leadership approach tend to see improved productivity, innovation, and retention rates. A study by McKinsey found that organizations with high levels of autonomy experienced a 20% increase in productivity and a 15% reduction in turnover. However, implementing autonomy requires significant cultural shifts within organizations. Leaders must be willing to relinquish control and trust their employees to make decisions. This can be challenging, particularly for those who are used to micromanaging or have concerns about accountability. "It's not about giving up control; it's about empowering your team to take ownership of their work," said Gleeson. "When you give people the freedom to make decisions, they become more engaged and invested in the success of the organization." As companies continue to navigate rapid growth and transformation, embracing autonomy is becoming an increasingly important leadership strategy. EXCELR8 reports that its clients who adopt autonomous leadership approaches see significant improvements in their bottom line. The data suggests that organizations willing to let go and give employees more autonomy are likely to reap long-term benefits. As Gleeson notes, "Autonomy is not just a leadership approach; it's a business imperative for success in today's fast-paced and rapidly changing environment." Byline: Emily J. Miller, Business Reporter Date: September 13, 2025 Location: New York City *Reporting by Forbes.*