Message from AVHAP Treasurer
The Courage to Lead: Taking a Stand and Embracing Unpopularity
Leadership is not a popularity contest. In healthcare and beyond, effective leaders often find themselves faced with challenging decisions that won’t please everyone. In fact, the mark of a true leader is often their willingness to make the right decision, even when it’s unpopular. Taking a stand — particularly in times of uncertainty or opposition — requires courage, conviction, and a deep commitment to your values and responsibilities.
Leaders are often tasked with driving change, whether it's implementing new protocols, pushing for higher standards, or addressing issues that others may avoid. These decisions can be met with resistance from those who are comfortable with the status quo or who may not fully understand the broader vision. In these moments, it’s essential for leaders to stay grounded in their purpose, recognizing that true leadership isn’t about appeasing everyone but about making a positive impact, even when that means standing alone.
One of the key aspects of taking a stand as a leader is having a clear set of values and guiding principles. Leaders who know their core values and align their actions with them are more resilient when faced with opposition. Whether it’s prioritizing patient safety, advocating for ethical practices, or fostering a culture of accountability, having a strong sense of purpose can help leaders stay the course, even when decisions are met with pushback.
For example, a healthcare leader might implement stricter infection control protocols that are initially met with frustration from staff who feel burdened by additional procedures. However, if that leader knows these protocols are necessary to protect patients and reduce infection rates, they must remain steadfast, providing clear communication about the reasons behind the changes and focusing on long-term benefits over short-term discontent. Leadership means seeing the bigger picture and understanding that temporary unpopularity is a small price to pay for safeguarding patient welfare and advancing the mission of the organization.
Taking a stand also means being comfortable with accountability. Leaders who take courageous positions must be ready to stand by their decisions, even if they face criticism or scrutiny. This accountability not only builds trust with those who look up to them but also models integrity and authenticity — qualities that inspire others. Staff and peers respect leaders who are honest about their motivations and transparent about the reasons for their decisions, even if they don’t agree with every choice.
It’s also important to recognize that unpopularity is often a temporary state. As people see the positive results of a decision or experience its benefits over time, initial resistance can turn into respect and even support. A leader’s decision to stand firm in the face of unpopularity can, in retrospect, be seen as a courageous and wise move. History is filled with examples of leaders whose actions were initially controversial but who are now celebrated for their vision and courage.
That said, taking a stand does not mean dismissing feedback or failing to listen to others. In fact, strong leaders actively seek out diverse perspectives and remain open to constructive criticism. The key difference is that they don’t let the fear of disapproval deter them from doing what they know is right. They balance listening with decisiveness, showing respect for others’ viewpoints while remaining true to their own convictions.
In a time when change is constant and the challenges in healthcare are growing increasingly complex, the need for leaders who are willing to be unpopular has never been greater. These are the individuals who push organizations forward, challenge complacency, and create environments where excellence is the standard. Taking a stand as a leader might not always make you the most popular person in the room, but it’s often the only path to real, lasting impact.
Leadership is about integrity, courage, and resilience. It’s about having the strength to make difficult decisions and the wisdom to understand that being liked is secondary to doing what’s best for the organization and the people it serves. If you’re a leader, embrace the courage to take a stand. Remember that true respect is earned not by trying to please everyone, but by staying true to your principles and championing the values that define you as a leader. Embrace the challenge, make the hard calls, and know that in doing so, you are shaping a legacy of impact and purpose. AHVAP has created the Executive Leader Fellowship Program to develop executive skillsets.
Sincerely,
Sharon Roberts, BSN, RN, CVAHP™
Treasurer, Board of Directors
AHVAP
