Why a New DSM Leadership Intensive Might Be Right for You

“I could have done it myself in half the time.”

I have heard some version of that sentence from more than one new leader.

Usually, it comes from someone who was promoted for all the right reasons. They knew the work. They were dependable, solved problems and stepped in whenever something needed to get done. Their organization saw their potential and gave them the opportunity to lead.

Then they found themselves doing their own job and quietly taking back everyone else’s work, too.

They would delegate a task and step in when it was not completed exactly as they would have done it. They would answer the question instead of helping someone think through it. They would fix the problem because it felt faster than slowing down to coach someone else.

The skills that made them an exceptional individual contributor were still valuable. Leadership now asked them to use those strengths in a different way.

They needed to guide people and help them develop ownership.

That transition can be surprisingly difficult and a little lonely.

You have earned the opportunity, and you are learning in real time how to navigate the next steps of your leadership journey.

You are ready to grow.

That experience is one of the reasons we developed the DSM Leadership Intensive.

About the DSM Leadership Intensive

Over six full-day sessions, you will have time to step away from the pace of your daily work and think more intentionally about how you lead.

You will learn from recognized experts on topics including leadership identity, professional presence, accountability, resilience, systems thinking and community leadership.

You will also have opportunities to take that learning further through interactive experiences designed to make the concepts feel real and relevant.

In each session, you will learn something new and practice it with others so you can apply it in your leadership role.

Maybe you are trying to delegate more effectively without leaving someone feeling unsupported. Or you need to learn how to give honest feedback. Or maybe you influence decisions without having formal authority.

Whatever the case, these real leadership moments are easier to navigate when you have tools, opportunities to practice and a support network of peers. That is what the DSM Leadership Intensive is designed to provide.

Whether you are stepping into your first formal leadership role, are looking to strengthen your leadership foundation or are leading without having direct reports, DSM Leadership Intensive can help.

Wherever you are starting, you do not have to arrive with everything figured out, as long as you are willing to learn

The knowledge and skills that helped you get here will continue to serve you. The DSM Leadership Intensive is designed to help you build the frameworks and relationships you need for what comes next.

Learn more about the DSM Leadership Intensive and register here. The program will begin Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026 at the Greater Des Moines Partnership.

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