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The need to be liked is one of business leaders' biggest psychological hurdles. While it's natural to want to be respected and appreciated, an excessive desire for approval can lead to weak decision-making, poor boundaries, and an inability to hold others accountable. From an Adlerian psychology perspective, this struggle stems from mistaken beliefs about self-worth and interpersonal relationships. Leaders who seek validation from others often fear rejection, prioritize harmony over progress, and struggle with making difficult but necessary decisions.

To be an effective leader, you must cultivate "the courage to be disliked"—the ability to make decisions based on what is correct rather than popular. In this article, we will explore common challenges leaders face regarding approval-seeking behavior, the Adlerian understanding of this issue, and practical strategies to overcome it.

Why Do Leaders Struggle with the Need to Be Liked?

Adlerian psychology suggests that people are social beings who naturally seek connection and belonging. However, when leaders overemphasize external approval, they develop an unhealthy reliance on how others perceive them rather than focusing on their actual contributions. This activity often leads to...

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