Moshe’s Blog

How to Handle Bad Behavior Before It Turns Into a Bigger Problem

Ever had that sinking feeling when a small issue suddenly snowballs into a full-blown crisis because it was brushed off one too many times? Welcome to the tricky territory of letting bad behavior slide until it’s impossible to ignore. It’s a place where leaders tiptoe around toxic attitudes and actions, hoping the problems will magically disappear—but spoiler alert—they don’t.

Whether it’s allowing rudeness to fester or letting underperformance slip by, tolerating problematic behavior sends the message that it’s acceptable, ultimately eroding morale and team cohesion. It starts small but left unchecked, this behavior can metastasize across the leadership team and the entire organization.

What small behaviors are you allowing that could eventually spiral into larger issues?

Is there bad behavior your leadership team tends to overlook because it’s uncomfortable to address?

How can you nip these challenges in the bud before they become full-blown problems?

5 Amare Ways to Handle Bad Behavior Before It Gets Out of Control

1. Spot the warning signs. Pay attention to minor patterns like lateness, snarky comments, or missed deadlines. These small issues often signal larger problems on the horizon.

2. Have the difficult conversations. Don’t dodge the tough talks. Approach team members with empathy, but be direct about what needs to change and how their actions affect the team.

3. Establish clear boundaries. Set expectations for behavior early on and reinforce them regularly. Ensure your team knows what behaviors are unacceptable and what the consequences are.

4. Lead by example. Model the standards you wish to see. If punctuality matters, show up on time; if inclusivity is crucial, make sure you’re actively fostering it. And deal with your own fears that may impede your leadership.

5. Reward positive behaviors. Catch team members doing the right thing and recognize their efforts publicly. Reinforcing good behavior helps establish a culture where positive actions are celebrated.

Don’t let bad behavior fester until it’s impossible to manage. Step up and handle it early with courage, clarity, and compassion to create a culture where healthy boundaries and respect are foundational to your team’s success. This is one way of leading with love.

Lead with the Most Authentic Version of You

I coach and advise executives and leadership teams on identifying and being the best version of themselves, through the Amare Way of love-powered leadership. For more information, contact me here.