If you’ve heard this directive at work, you’re not alone. Typically, it revolves around two main drivers:
The other key factor that allows this toxic directive to thrive is:
While there may be legitimate opportunities to trim non-essential spending, this is rarely the true meaning of “doing more with less.” In reality, it often translates to:
If this approach is enforced, the consequences can be damaging:
Replace the mindset of “doing more with less” by fostering strategic thinking and encouraging leaders to evaluate what’s essential versus “nice-to-have.”
Instead of demanding more output, identify high-value tasks or projects and eliminate lower-priority ones.
Provide the necessary tools, training, or team members to achieve goals realistically.
Acknowledge resource constraints and work collaboratively to address them.
Use the situation as an opportunity to propose long-term, innovative solutions.
Great leaders understand that this mindset is unsustainable and counterproductive. They:
While these conversations may feel awkward or confrontational, reframing them as “important conversations for everyone involved” can help you lead with confidence.
Great leaders focus on creating environments where teams can thrive, innovate, deliver high-quality results, and sustain performance over time—all while presenting alternative solutions to the business.
Let’s make 2025 the year we leave behind the toxic narrative of “doing more with less” and instead prioritise sustainable, strategic, and people-focused approaches.
