What does true freedom really mean for leaders, and how can it shape the way we show up in our lives and work? In this episode, I explore True Freedom as a living, breathing leadership principle. I share my journey of discovering freedom through learning to focus my attention, mastering my emotional responses, and making intentional, values-driven choices that cut through old patterns and people-pleasing habits.

I’m Mark Silverman, executive coach, leadership mentor, and author of Only Tens. As someone diagnosed with ADD in adulthood, I know what it’s like to wrestle with distraction, the need for approval, and the challenge of honoring my own boundaries. Over years of personal work and professional practice, I’ve learned that true freedom is less about external circumstances and more about your inner game, the discipline, courage, and presence you bring to every situation.

“True Freedom is love in every situation” ~Mark

This week on The Rising Leader:

· How directing your attention is foundational to genuine freedom

· Ways our triggers and preferences can keep us stuck, and practical steps to release them

· The evolution from setting boundaries for approval to embracing authentic choices

· The freedom that comes from not being controlled by the need for credit or validation

· Why admitting mistakes and cleaning up your messes is core to leadership freedom

· The relationship between discipline and authentic freedom

· How practicing emotional equanimity transforms reactivity into power

· Why real freedom means showing up with love, even amid disagreement or challenge

Resources Mentioned:

Book: Only Tens by Mark Silverman

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Leader, It’s Time to Rise!

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