Empathy is not Endorsement

There is a common misconception that being a highly empathetic leader means you become too soft. It's as if when we acknowledge someone struggling, it leads to giving them a pass for bad behavior.

But it's not this way at all.

Understanding someone's struggle does not equate to endorsing their actions.

You can validate their emotions while asserting your standards.

"I can see you are frustrated with this project. It's understandable. And I need you to address the team constructively. I want to work on that together."

Empathy and high standards can absolutely coexist!