The true test of leadership is knowing how to change

There are moments in a company's life that become milestones, inevitable turning points, that make us reflect on the future. Maintaining a company for nearly two decades is, undoubtedly, an enriching experience, but also a constant test of adaptation and resilience. Over the last 18 years, I have seen the market change countless times, crises arise without warning, and technologies revolutionize what was previously considered “the right way.” Leading has become a daily exercise in courage and vision. What was once unknown territory is now part of our routine and history.

I believe that leading is accepting the challenge to grow, adapt, and innovate, regardless of the circumstances. A leader cannot just react to changes; they must foresee them, prepare, and act with clarity and determination.

Some see innovation as optional, an initiative to explore “when there is time” or “budget.” This approach is a mistake. Innovation is what keeps the company competitive and prepares it to face new challenges. But innovating requires courage. Often, we need to abandon safe formulas and test unknown paths. This brings discomfort and that inevitable “butterflies in the stomach” , but it is exactly at that moment that we grow.

With the market in constant transformation, driven by new technologies and different customer needs, anticipating the future is not just about predicting what lies ahead, but creating a culture open to change and adaptation. This culture begins with the leader's example, who must be willing to question the status quo. “How can I do better or differently? What is missing in my process?” , This inquisitive stance is the engine of evolution.

But openness must be replicated across the entire team, promoting an environment where people feel safe to experiment, propose solutions, and challenge processes that no longer work. More than that, it is necessary to embrace agility: train the team to react to changes and provide the tools and knowledge needed to face challenges. This proactivity not only allows us to seize opportunities before others but also prepares us to transform difficulties into competitive advantages.

As we know, the future of business involves technology, but also people. I believe that the combination of technological innovation with a talented and committed team is the key. Technology is a powerful tool, but it is people who give life to ideas and transform them into results. A leader needs to invest in both: studying, staying updated, and seeking the best talent.

In my journey, I faced crises that forced me to start over in new countries and contexts. I learned that starting over should not be seen as a setback, but as an opportunity to reinvent oneself and grow. If I had to start from scratch today, I would do it with more confidence than before.

Source: Forbes Portugal