Why Some Good Leaders Change

Last week, we explored a perplexing question: Once they gain power, why do some admirable, value-driven leaders shift away from what made them effective?

This isn’t simply about corruption. Instead, as Brian Klaas explains in Corruptible, power magnifies what’s already present in a person’s character. We often see a natural but dangerous shift when leaders gain authority without accountability.

Power Changes the Brain

Neuroscience offers some clues. Research shows that activity in mirror neurons—the brain systems essential to empathy—decreases as individuals gain power. The more powerful someone becomes, the less they may attune to how their actions affect others. Their focus turns inward. Responsibility, risk, and reward are increasingly filtered through self-interest.

This change isn’t always conscious. In fact, it can feel entirely reasonable—especially when organizational systems fail to reinforce organizational shared values.

When Reinforcing Systems Erode

Strong leaders thrive in cultures with clear expectations and consistent feedback. But in too many organizations, guardrails fall away. CEO pay packages reward short-term results. Whistleblowers are silenced. Talented people fear losing their jobs for telling the truth.

Leaders stop hearing the truth—and start believing they are the organization. Their decision-making is unchallenged, and their sense of responsibility becomes distorted. A $1,000 bottle of wine with a client dinner might be rationalized as “in the company’s best interest.”

Leaders do not change overnight. The drift is gradual, almost invisible.

Stay Connected to a Servant Purpose

No leader intentionally abandons their values. Most believe they’re acting responsibly. That’s why a clearly defined and reinforced purpose is essential. When an organization stays anchored to its purpose—serving its clients, customers, or patients—it can help leaders stay grounded.

Next week we will share what strong cultural guardrails look like.

We welcome your thoughts and stories. Leadership is a journey…