Mindset matters: how an enabling attitude drives change

Mindset matters: how an enabling attitude drives change

In a sea of regulations and rules, where some leaders act more like customs officers policing innovation and change, Claus Ruhe Madsen, Schleswig-Holstein’s Minister of Economic Affairs, Transport, Employment, Technology and Tourism, offered a remarkable exception during his time as mayor of Rostock:

In an interview with Gabor Steingart, he emphasised: “It is all a question of mindset: if we want to build a road or a wind turbine, the approval process can take eight to ten years, because there is always someone who finds a law that can prevent construction. It is a question of mindset: do I want to prevent things or enable them?”

Madsen’s statement illustrates how important an enabling attitude is in driving change. While many leaders have their backs to the wall ensuring compliance with regulations and internal rules, Madsen focuses on finding ways to use or change those rules to enable progress. An enabling mindset is therefore crucial in overcoming these challenges.

What can we learn from this?

The lesson is clear: it is not about whether a wind turbine stands in the way but about clearing a path for it. This attitude translates directly into business leadership. Many companies have a subtle prevention mentality, where people raise concerns and point to incompatibilities. They often commission further analysis and benchmarking or demand revised concepts, all strategies that slow progress.

How do you establish an enabling mindset?

1. Celebrate solution finders: make it a practice to reward people who find creative ways to overcome challenges. Recognition encourages a culture of positive thinking and problem-solving.

2. Set an example: as a leader, actively seek solutions yourself and view challenges as opportunities for growth. Your team will follow your behaviour.

3. Cultivate positivity: create a working environment where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities and everyone is encouraged to contribute ideas. This promotes an open culture that welcomes innovation.

Every change begins with a small step, often a shift in mindset. Leaders in particular must see themselves as architects of enablement rather than guardians of the status quo. Change is often only a shift in perspective away.

If you would like to learn more about making change work in companies, download the free “Execution Wins – Implementing Strategies Effectively” playbook through the link in the comments.