#46: The Science of Standing Out: Why Healthcare and Government Needs Your Different
How to Play it Big Series - Part 2
In my last post, we talked about the cost of playing small.
Today, let's talk about something that might surprise you - the hard data behind being different.
Because here's what fascinating leaders know: Different isn't just a feel-good strategy. It's backed by serious research.
Let me share something personal with you. Recently, I was in a major healthcare policy meeting where everyone was approaching a problem the traditional way. I had this different idea bubbling up - a more innovative approach - but I caught myself doing that thing we all do sometimes: second-guessing whether I should speak up.
You know that feeling? When your heart's beating a little faster, and you're wondering if your different perspective is too "out there"?
The Data
But then I remembered something Adam Grant talks about in his research on original thinking: the people who drive meaningful change aren't the ones who stick to the script - they're the ones who dare to think differently. And Sally Hogshead's fascinating discovery that different is actually 40% more impactful than better.
So I took a deep breath and shared my perspective. I offered a completely different approach to our implementation strategy, one that drew on my background in innovation and systems thinking. Yes, it was different from how we'd always done things. But you know what? That difference sparked a whole new conversation. The team built on that initial idea, and together we created a solution that was genuinely better than what any of us could have developed alone.
Three months later, I was surprised to hear people were still referencing that discussion. Not because my idea was perfect (it wasn't!), but because bringing that different perspective permitted others to think differently too.
Deloitte's research revealed that organizations with leaders who bring their authentic selves to work are 6x more likely to be innovative and agile. In healthcare, where we're facing unprecedented challenges, that's not just interesting - it's crucial.
Here's what the research tells us about distinctive leadership:
• 83% of employees say they're more likely to be engaged when they can be their authentic selves at work (Deloitte)
• Teams led by authentic leaders show 34% higher levels of psychological safety (Google's Project Aristotle)
• Organizations with diverse leadership approaches are 45% more likely to report growth in market share (McKinsey)
But here's the data point that got my attention: Leaders who leverage their natural advantages are 14x more likely to be highly engaged and 3x more likely to be high performers (Gallup).
Let me translate what this means for you:
• That unique perspective you've been hesitating to share? It's a competitive advantage.
• Your natural communication style that feels "too different"? It's likely your fastest path to impact.
• Those distinctive traits you've been toning down? They're probably your secret weapon for innovation.
Remember my SHINE Framework?
(The framework I developed after years of observing what makes leaders truly magnetic?) Each letter represents a critical zone of leadership impact:
S - Service, Standards and Self: Setting high standards and engaging in constant self-reflection
H - Humour, Humility and Heart: Leading with empathy while staying grounded
I - Integrity and Inspiration: Inspiring others while maintaining unwavering integrity
N - Nurture and Navigate: Building partnerships and navigating challenges with resilience
E - Entrepreneurial Empowerment: Innovating and empowering others to reach their potential
When you align with these elements, the research shows something fascinating happens - your natural leadership advantages amplify, creating more impact with less effort.
The fascinating thing about “fascination”? It's measurable. When you're being authentically you:
• Your messages are 47% more likely to be remembered
• Your ideas are 39% more likely to be implemented
• Your influence increases by 34%
That's the power of different.
ONE THING TAKEAWAY:
Stop searching for "best practices" in leadership. Start leveraging your "distinctive practices" instead.
This week:
Notice one moment where you naturally shine - where things flow effortlessly, where people naturally engage with your ideas, where you feel most yourself. Write it down. This simple act of noticing builds awareness of your natural advantages and starts training your brain to spot opportunities to use them.
The question I want you to sit with:
"What if the data is right, and your different is actually your advantage?".
Leave a spark wherever you go. ✨
Coming Next:
Part 3: Building Bridges Through Your Unique Style
Next week, we'll explore how to turn your different perspective into your greatest connection point.
Part 4: The New Rules of Healthcare Leadership
We'll challenge traditional "best practices" and explore why what worked yesterday won't create the change we need tomorrow.
Part 5: Fascinating Leaders' Playbook
We'll close with real stories from leaders who've mastered being authentically different.
Unsubscribe · Preferences