Why Discipline Isn't Enough to Build Better Leadership Habits | Leadership Series Part 1

What if the reason your habits don't stick isn't a lack of discipline? Many leaders believe lasting change comes from pushing harder, trying longer, or simply having more willpower. But what if sustainable leadership habits begin somewhere else entirely? In this special three-part conversation, I welcome leadership coach and wellness expert Lisa Hammett to explore the science behind habit formation and why understanding how habits work can transform the way we lead ourselves and others. Together, we challenge one of the most common leadership assumptions that discipline alone creates lasting change and introduce a more practical approach built around small, intentional actions that become sustainable over time. Whether you're trying to establish healthier routines, lead your team more effectively, or simply create greater consistency in your own life, this conversation offers practical strategies you can begin applying immediately. In this episode, you'll discover: Why discipline alone often fails to create lasting habits The simple habit loop of cue, behavior, and reward How "habit stacking" makes new behaviors easier to maintain Why tiny, consistent actions often outperform ambitious goals Practical morning routines that help leaders begin the day with greater clarity and intention How disrupting unhelpful thought patterns creates space for healthier leadership decisions Why rewarding progress matters for both personal growth and team development One of the most powerful moments in this conversation comes as Elizabeth reflects on parenting and leadership, illustrating how encouragement and intentional rewards often produce better long-term results than relying on discipline alone. It's a reminder that the same principles that shape personal growth also influence the cultures we create as leaders. As you listen, consider this question: Are the habits you're trying to build designed for success or are they relying solely on willpower? This episode is Part 1 of a special series with Lisa Hammett. In the next conversation, I and Lisa continue exploring practical leadership habits that can help you build greater consistency throughout your day. If this conversation encourages you to think differently about the habits shaping your leadership, subscribe to Thinking That Matters podcast. Your support means a lot.  Join Us for The Leadership Advantage If you’re ready to strengthen the way you think, lead, and show up each day, join Elizabeth Mahusay and Lisa Hammett for The Leadership Advantage: Small Habits, Better Thinking, Bigger Results. This highly interactive workshop brings together the science of habit formation, intentional thinking, and practical mental fitness strategies to help leaders build daily routines that support meaningful, sustainable results. September 15, 2026 | 8:30 AM–12:00 PM Dyer Hall, First United Methodist Church 315 N. Church Street, McKinney, TX 75069 Invest in your leadership. Transform your thinking. Elevate your results. https://lisahammett.com/leadership-advantage/   _____________ 💡 Join the Women Growth Group for live, in-person training that empowers your potential and connects you with a vibrant community of growth-minded women! https://linktr.ee/gowithelizabeth Stay connected with Elizabeth on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ebmahusay/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ElizabethMahusay Website: https://elizabethmahusay.com/ Ready to shift the way you think and lead?Pick Your Path by Elizabeth Mahusay is now available! Start learning how to break limiting thought patterns, strengthen your mindset, and step into more intentional leadership.👉 Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Pick-Your-Path-Leadership-Course-ebook/dp/B0H24Q8DYX? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.