For years, Lani Mitchell believed that good management meant staying on top of every task, decision, and deliverable. With a background in finance, structure came naturally—and control felt like the only way to ensure results.
“I used to think that being a strong leader meant being involved in every detail,” says Mitchell, a Certified Management Accountant (Australia) who now also holds the Certified Global Professional Accountant designation. “But over time, I realized that control can actually limit growth—both for the team and for yourself.”
As she moved into senior leadership roles, overseeing not just finance but also HR and administration, the shift from technical expert to people leader forced her to rethink her style. “You hit a point where you can’t do everything yourself. That’s when you have to start trusting others.”
Mitchell gradually moved from a directive, top-down approach to a more participative leadership style—one that empowers employees to make decisions and take ownership. “Now, I focus more on setting clear goals and building a culture of accountability. I give my team the tools and trust to perform—and that’s when the magic happens.”
Letting go, however, didn’t mean stepping back. “I’m still hands-on when needed, but I’ve learned that micromanaging kills initiative. You don’t want people just following orders—you want them thinking, creating, solving.”
That mindset shift changed everything. Team performance improved. Innovation increased. And most importantly, employees became more engaged. “People thrive when they feel trusted,” Mitchell explains. “And as a leader, your job is to create that environment.”
Her advice for other managers? “Letting go doesn’t mean losing control—it means leading smarter. Focus on alignment, not oversight. Build clarity, not fear. And always be willing to evolve.”
For Mitchell, the greatest shift wasn’t operational—it was personal. “I had to change how I saw leadership. It’s not about being the smartest person in the room. It’s about helping others rise to their best.”
And it’s that mindset that continues to guide her today—through every challenge, every team, and every phase of growth.
