Leading down is expected.
Leading across is complex.
Leading up is an art form.
You navigate egos bigger than budgets.
You package hard truths so they can be heard.
You defend your team without sounding defensive.
You say “noted” to decisions that puzzle you, because diplomacy keeps the lights on.
You tell yourself it is strategic.
And it is.
But sometimes, it feels like disappearing in plain sight.
You build the decks they deliver.
You craft the language they claim.
You generate results that make them look visionary.
And when recognition comes, it rarely calls your name.
That is the duality of leadership.
To comply without compromising.
To serve without shrinking.
Managing up is not about pleasing power.
It is about protecting people.
So yes, understand the game.
Speak their language.
Let them feel in control.
But never lose your voice in the process.
Because when it is finally your turn to lead,
your team will rise only as high as your integrity stood
when no one was watching.