It's time middle managers stop seeing themselves as just cogs in the wheel. Ask yourself, “How am I creating value today?” If you are not innovating and evolving, you will quickly become obsolete. To stay relevant, watch for changes in the external context, like U.S.-China relations, and look for opportunities in it. Start by expanding your own knowledge on global shifts, reflect on them and share your insights with your team. This nurtures their curiosity and inspires them to stay informed about changes that could impact daily business activities.

Remember, leadership is about growth, not stagnation.