
Bricklayer to architect: Seven transitions for leaders
Understand the seven major changes in leadership mindset and capabilities required for successful transition to enterprise leadership, as detailed by Michael D. Watkins....

by I by IMD Published December 16, 2025 in Brain Circuits • 2 min read
Extracted from Jean-François Manzoni’s fascinating series of interviews with CEOs from global corporations, it was no surprise that this Brain Circuit attracted a lot of attention – and held about as much corporate wisdom as you can distill into 500 words.

Taken from our ever-popular Coaching Corner series, this short article identifies simple strategies for moving beyond a specialist mindset as you progress in your leadership journey.
In the first few days of his second administration, US President Donald Trump not only sought to outlaw DE&I programs in the public and private sectors stateside but also put pressure on European companies doing business in the US to do the same. However, that did not stop you from wanting to get it right in your workplaces, with these tips on inclusive communication for leaders proving one of the most popular short reads of 2025. Who said DE&I was dead?
Also aimed at emerging leaders, this Brain Circuit proved a timely reminder that it’s important to separate your true self from the demands and expectations of the role, and identified five ways to put intent into action.
In November 2023, the World Business Council for Sustainable Development established the Inner Development Goals (IDGs) as a necessary supplement to the SDGs.
In November 2023, the World Business Council for Sustainable Development established the Inner Development Goals (IDGs) as a necessary supplement to the SDGs. In one of our most-read features on sustainability in 2025, we distilled these into the skills needed to help organizations realize their efforts to combat climate change.
Knowing how much vulnerability to show and when to maintain distance is a key leadership skill. This Brain Circuit broke the art of building trust down into four easy-to-implement steps.

April 23, 2026 • by Michael D. Watkins in Brain Circuits
Understand the seven major changes in leadership mindset and capabilities required for successful transition to enterprise leadership, as detailed by Michael D. Watkins....

April 22, 2026 • by Prashant Saxena in Brain Circuits
As generative AI erases the visible difference between real and fabricated content, authenticity becomes a strategic imperative. Prashant Saxena explains why perceived authenticity depends on three factors operating together and shows how...

April 21, 2026 • by Didier Cossin, Yukie Saito in Brain Circuits
AI is profoundly transforming the business landscape, presenting both significant opportunities and new challenges to boards. Here are five ways to use the technology as a powerful boardroom ally. ...

April 16, 2026 • by Prashant Saxena in Brain Circuits
Are you investing heavily in a strong leadership presence on social media but have no idea if it’s paying off? If so, use the proof, people, and place trifecta to deliver breakout results....
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