A Note Of Encouragement For Leaders Looking Ahead
It’s hard not to feel the immense weight of the season we're in. Every day, we’re bombarded with news about threats to our rights, potential cabinet picks, and the promise of a new year filled with high-stakes political drama. The focus is, as always, on leadership at the federal level.
But amid all this, there’s one leader who might be getting lost in the shuffle: you.
While it’s natural to look toward Washington, the real impact we can make as leaders often starts right here, right now, with the people around us. You became a leader because you have a vision for a better future and have inspired others to be a part of that vision.
Now, people are hungry to show up and work to be part of something bigger than themselves, to feel lit up, and to be challenged in fulfilling ways.
As a leader, it’s up to you to create the conditions where this is possible and start playing a game people desperately want to play.
The reality that we’re facing is calling for this new approach- but don’t take my word for it. Ask your team and see if their opinions are reflected in some recent workforce statistics:
82% of workers say it's important that their organization see them as a "person" not just an employee. ("Employees Seek Personal Value and Purpose at Work. Be Prepared to Deliver." Gartner, March 29, 2023).
69% of employees would work harder if their efforts were more recognized. (Employee Feedback Statistics, Oak Engage 2024.)
To bring these values to life, here are some practical ways to cultivate a more human-centered leadership style that builds trust:
Approach communication and conflict with the intention of creating safety, gaining clarity, and improving human connections.
Cultivate your own ability to be more present, open, and receptive.
Commit to working in the open and share more information.
Catch members of your team doing something right- and make sure others know about it.
These small, consistent acts—like actively listening, demonstrating transparency, and showing gratitude—can have a big impact, creating a culture of trust and resilience.
Small changes in our leadership behavior often create a ripple effect, inspiring others to lead with greater authenticity and integrity.
The truth is, as much as we try to keep them separate, we’re humans at home and at work; when we bring our whole selves to the table, we create a more vibrant, purposeful environment that breathes life into our shared missions and inspires others around us.
We’re spending 8 to 10 hours a day with our colleagues and communities, and the difference we can make in their lives by showing up as whole, authentic humans is profound.
Consider taking a moment to pause and ask yourself:
What is my long-term purpose as a leader?
What kind of leader do I want to be in the coming year?
What positive impact do I want to leave on my team, family, and community?
What would it look like to practice greater self compassion right now?
By reconnecting with your purpose, you’re not just motivating yourself—you’re creating conditions to better support those around you while inspiring others to do the same.
Being a tender-hearted human in a heavy world is hard, but it is the leadership that others need to see right now in order to keep going.
If you’d like a partner on this path toward your 2025 leadership goals, grab some time on my calendar. I’d love to chat with you.
