There are days when leadership feels less like a calling and more like carrying a mountain on your back. In those low points, when you want to quit, it's not a sign of weakness; it’s a signal to pause. I use a simple two-question practice: 1. "Whose thought is this?" Is it my inner saboteur, "Annie," who is the source of my internal drains, or my authentic voice? 2. "What would my 80-year-old self tell me?" This practice, an Ensō Pause to check for alignment, has carried me through countless storms, including leaving the corporate world when Annie's voice was loudest. It’s a framework for choosing courage over comfort and ensuring the story you write is one you'll be proud of...

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What if the secret to authentic leadership lies in something as small as a seed?

Much like a seed carries the DNA that determines its growth, your leadership DNA holds the unique values, experiences, and strengths that define who you are. These elements form the foundation of your growth, just as a seed’s roots anchor it in the soil. Growth, however, doesn’t happen automatically—it begins with curiosity, the first root that drives exploration and transformation.

Curiosity is more than just a spark; it is the first root of leadership growth. It compels us to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and embrace change.

In coaching, the phrase “and so” signifies a moment of insight, a shift from reflection to action. It marks the point where thoughts connect, realizations surface, and clarity unfolds, guiding the conversation towards meaningful change. Much like the Zen concept of ensō, representing a continuous journey, "and so" embodies growth and transformation. Discover how listening deeply to these moments can empower you to align your inner world with the life you want to create.

As a high achiever, you may find success comes with an unyielding pursuit of excellence, yet you can still feel stagnant. If this resonates with you, you're not alone. I've navigated the complexities of high performance and the dance between ambition and procrastination. Through my journey, I discovered that understanding emotional intelligence and embracing mindfulness can help us unlock greater fulfillment and purpose. Join me as we explore how to transform feelings of being stuck into actionable growth, allowing you to thrive in both your career and life.