Do you ever feel like your team is stuck in a rut, bogged down by blame and negativity? 

If you’re nodding, you’re definitely not alone. As leaders, it’s incredibly easy to fall into the habit of pointing fingers or defending mistakes. But what if I told you there’s a practical mindset shift that can help you and your team rise above this cycle, permanently?

Let’s dive into how “above the line thinking” can help you lead with genuine accountability, foster more growth, and cultivate a culture where everyone (yourself included!) thrives.

What Is Above the Line Thinking?

Above the line thinking means taking full responsibility for your actions and outcomes—instead of blaming circumstances or others for what’s gone sideways. It's asking yourself, “How did I contribute to this situation?” rather than just declaring, “My team didn’t meet the deadline.” This simple reframing transforms blame into an opportunity for growth and empowerment .

Own Your Role: From Blame to Accountability

Ready to ditch the blame game? Start by owning your part in any situation, even when things haven’t gone as planned. Next time something doesn’t work out, try this:

Tip: Ask, “What could I have done to empower my team differently?”
Reflecting honestly helps you stay accountable and sets the tone for your team to do the same  .

Foster Open, Solution-Focused Conversations

Leaders who think above the line don’t look for scapegoats—they look for solutions. When mistakes happen, swap “Who’s responsible for this?” with “How can we fix this together?”

Tips for Solution-Focused Dialogue:

• Replace blame with curiosity—try asking, “Can we explore this more so I understand it better?”

• Make it safe for team members to raise issues. When people know they won’t be criticised for mistakes, innovation flourishes  .

• Use my Leadership Edge Mindset Guide to reflect on what needs to shift.

Model Emotional Resilience and Growth

Above the line leadership means staying calm under pressure and treating challenges as learning opportunities, not personal setbacks. Rather than criticising your team when a project fails, celebrate what you’ve learned together.

Tip for Leaders:
When you feel defensive or negative, pause and reframe: “What’s the opportunity for growth here—for me and my team?” Resilience is contagious; it starts with you  .

From Headspace to Heart Space: The Real Leadership Shift

Below the line leadership is all about protecting your ego—overthinking, being defensive, and hoarding credit. This mindset breeds fear, stifles collaboration, and zaps team morale.

By contrast, leaders who spend more time “above the line” operate from the heart:

• They’re more focused on serving others than guarding their own egos.

• They ask better questions, stay open to new ideas, and aren’t afraid to admit what they don’t know.

• Their energy is inspiring rather than exhausting, and it shows in team performance and morale  .

 5 Actions for Above the Line Leadership

1. Own your contribution: Take responsibility, even when it’s tough.

2. Swap blame for solutions: Lead with curiosity and collaborative problem-solving.

3. Model vulnerability: It’s okay not to have all the answers—and it invites creativity.

4. Celebrate lessons learned: Treat each challenge as a chance for growth.

5. Lead from the heart: Focus on service, not self-protection.

Resources Mentioned

• The Leadership Edge Mindset Guide Use it with your team to discuss “above and below the line” behaviours.

• Liz Murray’s Blog: For deeper dives on leadership and team culture.

• Be Exceptional Online Course: Learn to lead from above the line, consistently.

• 1:1 Executive Coaching & Team Workshops: For lasting transformation and real alignment with your mission .

What to Do Next

Ready to start? Download Liz’s Leadership Edge Mindset Guide as a practical tool for your next team meeting! Start one small shift toward “above the line” leadership today, and notice the difference in your team’s energy and performance.

About Liz Murray & How to Work With Her

Meet Liz Murray:
Liz is a Leadership and Executive Coach passionate about helping leaders rise above the daily grind and truly inspire their teams. With years of hands-on experience, Liz brings practical strategies and a heart-centred approach to every engagement.

Connect with Liz Murray:

• Instagram: @eopossibilities
• Facebook: Edge of Possibilities
• LinkedIn: Liz Murray
• Twitter: @eopossibilities
• Email: [email protected]

Website: edgeofpossibilities.com.au