The truth I've learned through years of digital transformation work: Technology should serve people, not the other way around. When we focus only on the shiny side of innovation, we lose sight of its real purpose.

There is a saying, "Great digital leaders don't rush to adopt the latest tech trend, they pause to ask why?

That was the day I began to understand what authentic leadership is about. Leadership is not about control or titles; it's about influence and relationships. It's not about being the smartest person in the room or having all the solutions. It's about service, trust, and creating an environment where others can thrive.

In many of my conversations with leaders about digital transformation, the conversation inevitably drifts towards tools, platforms, and solutions. Whereas for me the difference between a successful transformation and a stalled transformation isn't the software; it's the taking on of ownership by people.

I've sat through countless conversations where the focus on "digital transformation" is primarily about technology, AI, cloud, automation, or the latest platform. Don't get me wrong, these are important. But in my experience, it's rarely the technology that determines whether change sticks. It's the leadership and the people.