The Hidden Leadership Hack: Relational Safety
If you want to see your team work at their highest capacity, start by creating relational safety.
The Hidden Leadership Hack: Relational Safety
By Julia LeFevre
Most leaders think performance starts with skills, strategies, or even motivation. But neuroscience tells us something different: the smartest part of our brain only engages when we feel safe and connected.
In my recent conversation with healthcare executive Mike Fidgeon, this truth came alive. He shared stories of bosses who leaned in rather than pulled away when mistakes were made. Instead of withdrawing trust, they stood alongside him and said, “Go fix this. I believe in you.”
That kind of response rewires the brain. It turns fear into resilience and hesitation into action.
Why Safety Unlocks Performance
Our brains work from the bottom up.
First, the brain asks: Am I physically safe?
Next: Am I relationally safe? Do I belong here?
Only then does the brain fully access its prefrontal cortex — the part responsible for creativity, problem-solving, and innovation.
If the belonging question is left unanswered, the smartest part of the brain never turns on. Energy is spent scanning for rejection instead of producing results.
Leadership That Opens the Gate
The most effective leaders answer the belonging question directly. They communicate, “You matter. I believe in you. You have a place here.”
This does not mean ignoring mistakes. It means creating space where mistakes become opportunities for growth rather than rejection.
Leaders who master this unlock higher trust, stronger collaboration, and greater long-term performance.
A Next Step for Leaders
Think about your team right now.
Do they know they are safe with you?
Have you made it clear they belong, even when performance falls short?
When was the last time you leaned in instead of pulling away?
If you want to see your team work at their highest capacity, start by creating relational safety. It may feel counterintuitive, but it is the number one leadership hack to unlock the best in people.
In the meantime, listen to my full conversation with Mike Fidgeon on Wired to Lead.
