Expensive Doesn’t Always Mean It Fits

Freepik
As Eid approaches, everyone begins the yearly ritual of buying new clothes. We start browsing shops or marketplaces, looking for the most eye-catching pieces. The colors are beautiful, the designs elegant, and the fabric looks expensive. We imagine ourselves wearing it—feeling graceful, luxurious, and perhaps a little glamorous.
But then comes a familiar moment.
You spot a piece that looks stunning. On the hanger, it’s perfect. It’s modern and the material feels premium. But when you try it on, it just feels… off. Maybe the cut is awkward, or it simply doesn’t suit your style. Despite how promising it looked at first glance.
Ultimately, the clothes still look good—just not when worn by us.
If you think about it, you’ve probably experienced this before, haven’t you?
Related: Why Leaders Can't Fake Authenticity in the Age of Social Media
A similar thing often happens in the professional world.
Sometimes we view certain positions like "statement pieces”. The higher the title, the more attractive it seems. Manager, supervisor, leader—they all sound like the ideal career steps. It feels like a stage everyone must reach.
But in reality, it’s not always that simple.
There are people who are exceptional at their jobs but feel completely out of place when asked to lead a team. On the other hand, some might seem ordinary at first but thrive and grow rapidly when given the chance to manage others.
This means that not everyone has to be in the same position to be successful.
Often, the opposite happens within organisations. You might be a powerhouse of execution, someone who finds deep satisfaction in the "doing"—building, coding, or creating. But because the world celebrates the CEO, you try to force yourself into that mold. Suddenly, you’re spending your days in high-level meetings and abstract planning, and you feel drained. The role looks impressive to others, but for you, it’s a stiff designer suit that restricts your movement and kills your spark.
Similarly, someone who thrives on human connection and collaboration might feel suffocated in a prestigious solo specialist role, no matter how high the paycheck is.
All these roles are essential, but they require a different "cut" and "fabric”.
Yet, we often unconsciously judge a position by its label, overlooking the reality of the fit.
In any organisation, there is a simple but vital principle: the right person for the right role. When someone is in the right spot, everything feels more natural. The work flows better, the team collaborates more easily, and the individual feels more confident in their duties.
There’s no need to force yourself to become something that doesn't feel right.
Perhaps it’s worth asking yourself once in a while:
What kind of role actually makes you feel like you’re growing the most? Do you enjoy leading and directing others? Or do you feel most at home when you can focus on the expertise you’ve mastered?
There is no better or worse answer.
Because in the end, just like choosing clothes for Eid, what looks best isn’t always the most expensive or the flashiest.
What matters is that it fits.
For leaders carrying more than their job titles…
Be part of Malaysia Immersion Week 2026!
Join us for an 8-day journey (June 24–July 1, 2026) designed for leaders who want time and space to connect with like-minded business leaders. You’ll gain VIP access to the Malaysia Leadership Summit, engage in masterclasses with global leaders, and experience cultural immersion that offers fresh perspective on yourself and your team.
Apply now!

Personal
Manisha is an editor and writer at Leaderonomics.






