My vulnerability didn't weaken me; it empowered me. And more importantly, it inspired others to embrace their own vulnerabilities and authenticity.

In my decades-long leadership journey, one lesson has become unmistakably clear: personal integrity isn't just a buzzword; it's the foundation of effective leadership. I've learned this not from theories but from facing the challenges of leading teams in the real world.

You’re standing in front of your people or addressing them via video, and all you get are blank stares. You ask, what do I have to do to get everyone engaged?

Stop holding people accountable; it doesn’t work. But leadership coaching is built around accountability, so how can I say it doesn’t work?

Is the core values conversation approaching the tipping point on your “give a s**t meter?” Fair enough; let’s talk about a new aspect of them. Three things about core values you may not have considered…

Great leaders are not, in fact, focused on themselves, but are focused outside themselves.

In doing so, here are some of the things I have learned:

1. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

2. Though you have transformed, never be ashamed of your story or who you used to be.

3. Your core values are who you already are. Own it.

4. Listening “for” is more than being open. It’s putting aside the need to “do” anything.

We have come to the conclusion that Purpose isn't a sweet little "nice to have." It's a necessity. In life and in business. Where there is purpose, there is drive. Where there is drive, there is the everlasting climb to better business, better lives, and a better world.

You have the power to choose your leadership style, but the one aspect of your style you can’t choose is leading by example. You truly have no choice but to intentionally practice it, as it will happen whether or not you choose to do so.

IN ORDER FOR THE REAL SPIRIT OF “LEADING BY EXAMPLE” TO BE EFFECTIVE, IT SEEMS LIKE IT TAKES A LOT OF PATIENCE AND MATURITY.

Ask yourself, “Where am I playing small?  Where am I not letting my own light shine?” Take a look at your own judgments and limitations that get in the way of generously listening to the people you interact with the most every day. Become aware of your impact. Take accountability for how you perceive. Be the example of what you want to see.

it is the responsibility of leaders to choose goals that matter. Only then does the necessary system of waterfalling those goals through the organization with key OKRs (objectives and key results) work effectively.

Find a way to take personal responsibility, to be innovative, assertive, and take initiative in creating the culture that you actually want

This year, we are going to present a few of the key distinctions that leaders must model to sustain high performance.

1. Developing ownership & accountability in your organization

2. Examining how "perception = reality/default listening"

3. Increasing engagement and trust by expanding your own awareness

I’ve noticed that when I:

1. Let go of control

2. Allow others to figure it out

3. Give others a chance to speak up

4. And listen generously

…I am then BEING my best as a leader. It’s no longer about me, about my personality or leadership characteristics, my new focus is on those I care about impacting: our clients, our team, our family and friends.