Like the seasons of the year, the tenure of a CEO progresses through four distinct stages. Each stage brings a unique set of opportunities and challenges. Blind spots—those critical flaws in judgment or strategy—can emerge at any time. From overconfidence early in a new role to a lack of strategic clarity later on, the best leaders are aware of this cycle and lead with intentional clarity.

1. Spring Stepping up to the Role

This period covers the two to three years before the board selects the next CEO. This is your preparation phase.

• The Focus You must actively gain the right experience, develop necessary skills, and demonstrate the qualities of an exceptional leader.
• The Goal Your efforts should position you as the natural choice when the time comes and prepare you to take the reins should you get the job.

2. Summer Stepping into the Role

This covers your crucial first two years as CEO. This is when you set the tone for your entire tenure.

• The Focus Take bold actions that get the organization to work at its full potential and productivity in the direction you have chosen.
• The Blind Spot Overconfidence is the primary trap here. New CEOs can become blinded to underlying structural issues or cultural friction. The challenge is ensuring your bold actions are strategically sound for the long run, not just designed for a quick win.

3. Fall Staying Ahead While in the Role

After a strong start, the challenge shifts from launching to sustaining and fighting off complacency.

• The Focus You must shape the company’s long-term journey. This means combating complacency in both yourself and your employees.
• The Strategy Create successive “S-curves”—periods of intense activity and radical improvement that will boost performance at every level of the organization. This keeps the organization dynamic and prevents stagnation.

4. Winter Sending it Forward to the Next CEO

This is the final and often most delicate stage of your tenure, involving succession planning.

• The Focus Prepare to hand over the reins gracefully to your successor. This process involves recognizing the right time to leave and navigating the transition smoothly and with transparency.
• The Legacy A true measure of a great CEO is whether the business continues to outperform financially in the years after they step down. Your final work is to leave the company better positioned for the future.

Moving Forward with Clarity

While a deep understanding of these four seasons won’t eliminate challenges, it helps great CEOs anticipate them. By being aware of the specific pitfalls that arise in each stage—from the overconfidence of Summer to the complacency of Fall—leaders can actively use tools and techniques to avoid these traps and find a clear path to success.

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