The True Strength of Leadership Lies in Knowing When to Pause

by Dr Abhishek Gilara

Great leadership isn’t about constantly pushing forward. It’s about knowing when to accelerate—and when to slow down. It’s about reading the energy, not just the agenda. And it’s in these subtle decisions that the best outcomes are born.

Recently, I learnt a powerful lesson during an online live workout session. The group was energised, the momentum was high, and the session—focused on sports strengthening—was intense. After three exhausting rounds, we were all drained. Still, when the coach asked if we’d go for a fourth and fifth round, most of us, riding on adrenaline, shouted, “Both!”

We pushed through the fourth round. Tired but motivated, we prepared for the fifth.

But to our surprise, the coach said, “Session over.”

Later, she shared something unforgettable:

“I saw many of you struggling to maintain form. It’s not about finishing a round—it’s about doing it right. And it’s also about knowing when to rest.”

That wasn’t just a fitness trainer speaking. That was a leader making a wise call.

She sensed we were mentally charged but physically fading. She chose quality over quantity and sustainability over exhaustion. That is the kind of leadership the world needs more of.

In business, it’s no different.

A wise leader knows when to push—and when to pause. They understand that sometimes the team needs recovery, not just another task.

Because in the long game of business,

Results matter more than rounds. Longevity matters more than temporary momentum.

True leadership isn’t about getting your team to do more.

It’s about guiding them to do what truly matters—and knowing exactly when enough is enough.