3 Things to Keep Doing With Your Team in 2026

As we roll into a new year, it's tempting to be diverted by those bright shiny objects. New strategies, launching fresh initiatives and setting big goals.

But sometimes, the most powerful move you can make isn’t about adding more. It’s about identifying what’s already working, and committing to keep doing it.

After a challenging year for many business owners, 2026 is the time to double down on what creates real traction in your team. Less drama. More ownership. Steadier leadership. And better performance, without you being the bottleneck.

Here are three simple but powerful things to keep doing in the new year if you want to lead your team with more confidence, clarity and connection.

#1: Keep Having Regular Meetings (Even if You’re Busy)
Let’s be honest, meetings can feel like a time suck. When you're overwhelmed, behind schedule or putting out fires, they’re often the first thing to fall off the calendar.

But skipping meetings sends a subtle signal: this isn’t important.

Your team notices. They interpret that as: I’m not important. And that’s where disengagement starts.

Whether it’s 1:1 check-ins, team huddles or monthly strategy sessions, regular meetings give your team a space to ask questions, raise concerns, and feel supported. They’re a rhythm that helps build trust — and when trust is strong, performance follows.

So even if you're tempted to cancel the Monday morning catch-up or push back that one-on-one, don’t. Keep the commitment. Show up on time. Prioritise those moments to connect.

If you’re not already doing this consistently, this should land squarely on your start doing list.

#2: Keep Having Curious Conversations

When a staff issue crops up, it’s easy to jump to conclusions. You’ve seen the pattern before. You think you know what’s going on. But do you really?

Curious conversations are one of the simplest and most effective leadership tools you have. They’re the antidote to assumptions and the key to understanding what’s really happening beneath the surface.

Being curious means asking open-ended questions. It means resisting the urge to fill silences or rush the conversation. It means holding space for your team to explain their perspective — even if it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient.

These conversations are especially powerful when something feels off but you can’t quite pinpoint it. They create a safe space for your team to open up, and they show you’re willing to understand before you act.

Here’s a practical tip: next time you're having a one-on-one and things get quiet, don’t fill the gap. Stay silent a few seconds longer. You might be surprised by what your team member shares next.

#3: Keep Creating Clarity

Clear is kind. Unclear is unkind. (from Brene Brown)

Your team can’t perform if they don’t know what’s expected, or worse, if they think they know, but have it wrong.

Clarity gives people confidence. It helps them make better decisions. It reduces hesitation and confusion. And it empowers them to take ownership of their work, without needing constant check-ins or hand-holding.

Creating clarity doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about revisiting and reinforcing the basics:

• Up-to-date position descriptions
• Clear KPIs and goals
• Defined responsibilities
• Documented processes
• Clear communication around expectations and priorities

These might seem like admin tasks, but they have a direct impact on performance, morale and productivity.

And here’s the thing: AI hasn’t replaced any of this. It can help you write better SOPs or generate draft KPIs, but it can’t decide what’s actually important in your business. That’s still on you as the leader.

Clarity is leadership. Don’t underestimate it.

Bonus Tip: Keep Exploring AI (without overcomplicating it)

If you’re curious about AI and how it can help your business, keep leaning in.

No, it won’t replace your team. And no, it won’t magically fix your people problems.

But it can make your life easier. From helping you create templates and documents, to drafting performance feedback or helping systemise your onboarding process — there are opportunities worth exploring.

The businesses that stay open and adaptable with AI will find smart ways to use it as a support tool, not a replacement for leadership.

If something feels clunky, time-consuming or repetitive, there’s a good chance AI can help. Keep experimenting. Keep learning. Just don’t lose sight of the human side while you do it.

The Bottom Line

2026 doesn’t have to be about big sweeping changes. Sometimes the smartest move is to keep doing what works, and do it more consistently.

So if you only focus on three things with your team this year, make it these:

• Keep your meeting rhythm strong
• Keep having open, curious conversations
• Keep creating and reinforcing clarity

When you do, you create a culture of trust, ownership and steady performance — even when the business gets busy or things feel uncertain.

That’s the kind of leadership that doesn’t just solve today’s people problems, it builds a better team for the long haul.

An Invitation
If you’d like to connect with other business owners, leaders and managers, I’d love for you to join us inside our free Facebook Group where you can connect with other like minded business owners, leaders and managers to discuss all things HR: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hrsupportaustralia