Walk the Talk

Walk the Talk

July 29, 2026

After Sense of Urgency, Management Commitment & Behavior is the second essential condition for lasting change. Leadership is not just about words; it is, above all, about setting the right example. And that is precisely where we often fall short.

Our leaders regularly speak in favor of change, but they do not always demonstrate the behavior needed to bring others along. Citizens are told there is no money to index the old-age pension, while ministers and members of Parliament continue to make frequent overseas trips. Only a few weeks ago, the Speaker of Parliament considered it acceptable to spend several weeks at the FIFA World Cup at the taxpayers' expense. Signals like these undermine the credibility of the message that everyone must tighten their belts.

The same pattern can be found in many other organizations. Employees are expected to become more efficient, reduce costs, and embrace change. But when leaders themselves fail to live by those same standards, support quickly erodes. Why should employees or citizens be willing to make sacrifices if their leaders are unwilling to do the same?

We see this in many areas of society. A Minister of Health should be a role model for preventive healthcare. Political leaders who advocate for a cleaner island should visibly set the example themselves. Integrity, discipline, sustainability, and responsible behavior all begin at the top.

Change is contagious—but so is leadership by example. In the end, people do not follow what leaders say; they follow what leaders do.

Mahatma Gandhi expressed it perfectly:

"Be the change you want to see in the world."

Lasting change, therefore, does not begin with new plans or more reports. It begins with leaders who practice what they preach.

Walk the talk.

Miguel Goede