When I went to college to play basketball, I remember wondering if I could truly play at the next level. It took me until about Christmas of that first season to adjust to the collegiate game and see that I could hang with the big boys.

Leadership has similar times of transition. While we should always be growing as a leader, there are certain times where we transition into a new level.  During these times of new level transition, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Take a fresh look at yourself
We are wired in such a way that we live according to our own self definition. Does the current way you see yourself include being a leader at this next level?  In other words: Do you believe you can be (or already are) the kind of person who leads at the next level?  Maybe you need to upgrade your own self defined identity?

Exorcise old demons
As you transition into new leadership territory, you’ll have to battle old patterns and behaviors. Bad habits you thought you’d defeated long ago will suddenly re-surface and you’ll have to exercise mastery over them once again. Take the time to reconcile the past and get ready to move into your future.

Acquire new skills
Leading at the next level will require new skills. Once you’ve taken a fresh look at yourself and exorcised old demons, acquiring new skills comes pretty naturally. Be teachable and willing to experiment with new tools and approaches in this time.

When you find yourself leading at the next level, you may be doing a new job in a new position, using new tools and skills but the most significant thing that is new is you.