The Self Aware Leader with Jason Rigby

Hey everyone, I've always believed in the power of personal growth, especially as a self aware leader. Recently, I've been diving deep again into Stephen R. Covey's "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," and it's been a game-changer. I wanted to share some of my takeaways and how I'm applying these habits to my own leadership journey. Habit 1: Be Proactive This one's all about taking ownership. I've realized that I have more control over my environment and outcomes than I sometimes give myself credit for. I'm making a conscious effort to be more accountable and proactive in my decision-making. Habit 2: Begin with the End in Mind Having a clear vision is so important. I'm taking the time to really define my long-term goals, both personally and for my team. This helps me make sure my actions are aligned with where I want to be in the future. Habit 3: Put First Things First Prioritization is key! I'm learning to focus on what truly matters, rather than just reacting to the loudest demands. This involves some tough choices, but it's incredibly freeing to know I'm working on the right things. Habit 4: Think Win-Win Collaboration is at the heart of this habit. I'm striving to create a team environment where everyone feels valued and we all work together towards shared goals. It's about finding solutions that benefit everyone involved. Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood Listening is a skill I'm constantly working on. Before jumping to conclusions, I'm trying to truly understand where my team members are coming from. This has already led to better communication and stronger relationships. Habit 6: Synergize This is where the magic happens! When we combine our diverse skills and perspectives, we can achieve amazing things. I'm encouraging more brainstorming and creative collaboration within my team, and it's been exciting to see the results. Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw Self-care is not selfish, it's essential. I'm making sure to prioritize my own learning, health, and well-being. It's like the old saying goes, you can't pour from an empty cup. I want to be the best version of myself for my team and those I lead. I'm still on this journey, and it's an ongoing process. But re-incorporating these habits into my leadership style has already made a noticeable difference. I'm more focused, more effective, and I feel a deeper connection with my team. I hope this inspires you to explore the 7 Habits as well! Your friend, Jason

Every System is Perfectly Designed... To Change Your Perspective Have you ever found yourself caught in a cycle of frustration, questioning why you and your team keep hitting the same walls despite your best efforts? I've been there too, feeling the weight of repeated failures and the temptation to point fingers at myself or others. But then I came across a profound insight from W. Edwards Deming, a pioneer in quality management, who famously said, "Every system is perfectly designed to get the results it gets." This single statement has the power to transform how we, as self-aware leaders, approach our challenges in both business and life. The System is the Culprit, Not You Deming's quote is not about resigning to fate but rather a powerful invitation to adopt a systems thinking mindset. Here's a deeper dive into what this means: The System: This encompasses every aspect of our environment, from processes and procedures to our mindset and the overarching culture. It’s the complex web of interconnected factors that drive outcomes. Perfectly Designed: This phrase doesn’t imply that the system is flawless in a positive sense. Instead, it means that the system is producing the exact results it’s set up to achieve. If those results are less than desirable, it’s a sign that the system itself needs reworking. Results: These are the end products, both intended and unintended, of the system’s design. Embracing the Principle for Self-Aware Leadership Here’s how I’ve come to apply Deming’s principle in my journey as a leader, and how you can too: Own the Results: It’s easy to blame individuals when things go wrong, but true leadership involves taking ownership of the system's outcomes. If your team is underperforming, consider that it’s likely a systemic issue rather than a few bad performers. Challenge Assumptions: Take a critical look at your existing processes. Are they truly efficient? Does your company culture genuinely support the values you stand by? Sometimes, the systems we’ve grown accustomed to need a fundamental reevaluation. Focus on Improvement, Not Blame: Shifting from blame to problem-solving is crucial. When you understand that the system is flawed, you can direct your energy towards identifying and rectifying those flaws rather than assigning blame. Experiment and Iterate: Don’t shy away from trying new approaches. Experimentation is key to finding better ways to achieve desired outcomes. Test, measure, and adjust continuously—each iteration is a step towards refining the system. Lead with Empathy: Recognize that people are integral parts of the system. Understand their challenges and actively involve them in the problem-solving process. Empathy fosters a collaborative environment where everyone is committed to improvement. Applying Deming's Principle in Your Life Deming’s insights aren’t confined to the professional realm. They can significantly impact our personal lives as well: Fitness: If achieving your fitness goals feels like an uphill battle, scrutinize your system. Is your diet plan realistic? Does your routine accommodate regular exercise? Relationships: Recurring conflicts might signal deeper, systemic issues in communication or expectations. Evaluating these patterns can help address the root causes. Happiness: If you’re feeling unfulfilled, consider how your daily habits and choices contribute to this state. Small systemic changes in your routine can lead to a profound improvement in your overall well-being. A Real-World Example: The Toyota Production System The Toyota Production System (TPS) is a shining example of Deming’s philosophy in practice. TPS focuses on continuous improvement, root cause analysis, and empowering employees to identify and solve problems. This approach has led to Toyota’s outstanding quality and efficiency, demonstrating the power of a well-designed system. Conclusion: Empowering Change Through Awareness By embracing the idea that systems are the key to results, we empower ourselves to become architects of our own success. This shift in perspective transforms us from victims of circumstance to proactive leaders capable of designing better outcomes. Whether we’re in the boardroom or navigating personal challenges, recognizing that “every system is perfectly designed to get the results it gets” equips us with the insight to create meaningful change. Remember, every system is perfectly designed… to change. This journey of awareness and improvement is ongoing, and it starts with a single step—challenging the system.

As a leader, I often grapple with an unsettling feeling – that people are against me. It's a heavy burden to bear, casting shadows on even the brightest days. Perhaps you've felt this too, my fellow leader. It's a lonely path, one that can make us question our purpose and abilities. The Spiritual Roots of My Struggle In my heart, I believe this struggle is more than just professional challenges or interpersonal conflicts. It's a spiritual battle, a tug-of-war between my ego and my higher self. My ego, driven by a need for validation and control, whispers in my ear, convincing me that I am constantly under attack. It magnifies negativity, distorting my perception of reality. I've come to realize that this ego-driven perspective is a defense mechanism, a shield against perceived threats to my identity and self-worth. It's a natural human response, but one that can be incredibly damaging. Why Does My Ego Act This Way? Deep down, my ego is trying to protect me. It sees any challenge or criticism as a threat, a potential blow to my self-esteem. This defensive stance creates a sense of separation and isolation, feeding the illusion that I am alone in my struggle. But I am learning to see through this illusion. I am beginning to understand that my worth as a leader is not defined by external validation or the approval of others. True leadership comes from within, from a place of self-assurance and unwavering faith in my purpose. The Path to Self-Awareness My journey toward self-awareness has been a winding road, filled with moments of both triumph and despair. It's an ongoing process, but one that I embrace with open arms. I've learned to reflect on my feelings, exploring the triggers and patterns that fuel my sense of victimization. I challenge negative thoughts, seeking evidence to support or refute them. I practice mindfulness, grounding myself in the present moment and observing my thoughts and emotions without judgment. I seek feedback from trusted colleagues and mentors, welcoming their insights and perspectives. I embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, recognizing that true strength is forged in the fires of adversity. Questions That Guide My Journey Along this path, I ask myself: What evidence do I have that people are against me? Am I interpreting the situation accurately, or am I letting my ego distort my perception? How can I respond to this situation from a place of strength and compassion rather than defensiveness? What can I learn from this experience to become a better leader? Affirmations That Strengthen My Resolve I repeat these affirmations to myself, like a mantra: I am in control of my thoughts and emotions. I choose to see challenges as opportunities for growth. I am confident in my abilities as a leader. I release the need for external validation and trust in my inner wisdom. I am surrounded by supportive and understanding people. Embracing Vulnerability as a Leader My journey as a leader is not just about guiding others; it's about guiding myself. It's about embracing vulnerability, acknowledging my struggles, and sharing my story with others who may be facing similar challenges. I believe that true leadership is born from authenticity and compassion. It's about recognizing our shared humanity and supporting each other on our individual paths. I invite you, my fellow leader, to join me on this journey of self-discovery. Let us embrace our vulnerabilities, challenge our egos, and lead with open hearts and open minds. Together, we can create a world where leaders are not defined by their struggles, but by their courage to face them.

Hey Self-Aware Leaders, I've been diving into Jocko Willink's book "The Dichotomy of Leadership," and it's sparked some serious reflection on the role of humility in leadership. As someone who's committed to personal growth and self-awareness, I believe this is a topic we all need to grapple with. Jocko makes a bold statement: "Humility is the most important quality in a leader." Now, that might seem counterintuitive in a world that often celebrates confidence and charisma. But hear me out. The Ego Trap Ego can be a powerful motivator, but it can also be a dangerous trap. When our egos get inflated, we become resistant to feedback, blind to our own shortcomings, and unable to learn and grow. We start to believe that we have all the answers, which is a recipe for stagnation and failure. Think about it: how many times have you seen talented leaders derail their careers because they couldn't check their egos? It happens all the time. The Power of Humility Humility, on the other hand, opens up a world of possibilities. It allows us to: Listen: To truly hear and understand the perspectives of others, even when they disagree with us. Learn: To continuously seek out new knowledge and skills, recognizing that we always have more to learn. Lead: To build trust and respect with our teams by acknowledging our own limitations and empowering others. The Micromanagement Myth One area where humility plays a crucial role is in managing up. We often blame our bosses for micromanaging, but Jocko argues that the solution lies in leadership, not complaining. When we take extreme ownership of our work and performance, we naturally earn more autonomy and trust from our superiors. Checking Your Ego So, how can we cultivate humility in our own leadership? Here are a few questions to ask yourself: Am I open to feedback, even when it's difficult to hear? Do I actively seek out opportunities to learn and grow? Am I willing to admit my mistakes and take responsibility for my actions? Do I value the contributions of my team members and empower them to succeed? These are tough questions, but they're essential for any leader who wants to reach their full potential. Remember, humility isn't about weakness or passivity. It's about having the courage to confront your own ego and embrace a mindset of continuous improvement. Let's be honest with ourselves, acknowledge our flaws, and commit to becoming more humble leaders. The rewards will be worth it, both for ourselves and for those we lead.

Hey Self-Aware Leaders, Today's episode is a special one, inspired by a recent conversation I had with a friend who's leading a team through some major uncertainty. It got me thinking about a powerful concept I stumbled upon in the Harvard Business Review: the importance of developing a clear vision when managing ambiguity. Now, I know what you're thinking – "Vision? That's easy to say, but how do I actually create one when everything feels up in the air?" Trust me, I get it. As leaders, we're constantly navigating the unknown, and it can be tempting to just react to whatever comes our way. But here's the thing: when we don't have a clear vision, we're like ships without a rudder, tossed about by the waves of uncertainty. We lose sight of our goals, our values, and what truly matters. And that's when things can really start to unravel. So, what does it mean to develop a clear vision in the midst of ambiguity? It's about more than just setting a goal or having a plan. It's about defining what success looks like for you and your team, even when the path forward is unclear. I love the example they shared in the article about parents trying to raise "good kids." The definition of a "good kid" is different for every family. For some, it might mean academic success, while for others, it might mean strong family connections or athletic achievements. The key is to identify what matters most to you and use that as your guiding light. So, how do we do this in our own leadership roles? Here are a few self aware questions to get you started: What are the core values that guide your decision-making? What does success look like for your team, your organization, or even your personal life? How can you align your actions with those values and goals, even when faced with uncertainty? Once you have a clear vision in mind, it's like having a compass that points you in the right direction, no matter how turbulent the waters get. Remember, a vision isn't a rigid plan. It's a flexible framework that allows you to adapt and adjust as new information emerges. But it's also a powerful tool that can give you the confidence and clarity you need to lead with purpose, even when the path ahead is uncertain. So, my fellow self-aware leaders, let's commit to developing a clear vision, not just for our organizations, but for our own lives. Let's embrace the unknown with courage and clarity, knowing that we have the power to create our own success. Until next time, keep leading with awareness!

Hey friends, I've been pondering a quote by Dennis Waitley lately, and it's got me thinking about the language we use as leaders – and how it shapes our reality. Waitley said: "Winners say, 'I must, I can, I will.' Losers say, 'I should have, I could have, I wish I had.'" Now, before you roll your eyes at another motivational quote, hear me out. As someone who's committed to the journey of self-awareness and higher thinking, I believe this quote offers a powerful insight into the connection between our thoughts, our words, and our results. The Inner Dialogue of a Winner Think about the winner's language for a moment: I must: There's a fire in this phrase, a sense of purpose and urgency. It speaks to a deep-rooted belief that the goal is not just desirable, but essential. I can: This is pure confidence, a trust in one's abilities and resilience. It's the voice that says, "Challenges are opportunities for growth, and I'm up for the task." I will: This is the ultimate commitment, a vow to take action and see it through. It's a recognition that our choices and efforts are what drive our progress. This is the kind of self-talk that propels us forward, that empowers us to create the reality we envision. The Trap of the Loser's Language Now, let's shift gears and look at the loser's language: I should have: Ah, the familiar sting of regret. This phrase anchors us in the past, replaying missed chances and what-ifs. I could have: This is the voice of unfulfilled potential, whispering about paths not taken and possibilities left unexplored. I wish I had: This is the final surrender to longing, a resignation to a reality that feels out of reach. While these phrases might seem harmless, they can create a mental and emotional prison. They keep us trapped in a cycle of self-blame and inaction, preventing us from moving forward. Rewriting Your Script So, how do we shift our internal dialogue from loser to winner? It's not about denying the past or ignoring our shortcomings. It's about choosing a more empowering narrative: Awareness: Pay attention to your thoughts and words. Notice when you slip into the loser's language and gently challenge those patterns. Reframing: Replace those self-defeating phrases with more positive affirmations. Instead of "I should have," try "Next time, I will." Instead of "I could have," declare "I am capable." Action: Turn your words into reality. Take steps towards your goals, even if they're small ones. Every action reinforces your commitment and strengthens your belief in yourself. The Choice is Yours Remember, you have the power to choose the story you tell yourself. The words you use matter because they shape your perception of reality. By consciously shifting your language, you can unlock a new level of self-belief and create a life that truly reflects your potential. As always, I'm here with you on this journey of self-discovery and growth. Keep leading with awareness, my friends!

If you're a leader – whether you're running a business, managing a team, or simply leading your own life – I've got a question for you: Have you ever felt torn between what you know is right and what others expect of you? Have you been called "stubborn" or "difficult" because you refuse to budge on your core beliefs? If so, you're in good company. I've worked with some incredibly successful people, from startup founders to Fortune 500 CEOs, and I can tell you – the best ones share a common trait: they are uncompromising in the pursuit of their goals. What Does It Mean to Be Uncompromising? Now, before you roll your eyes and think I'm talking about being bullheaded or inflexible, let's get something straight: Being an uncompromising leader isn't about ignoring feedback or steamrolling others. It's about having a rock-solid sense of purpose and the courage to stay true to it. Think about it: Vision: Uncompromising leaders have a clear, vivid picture of what they want to create. They don't just see the present, they see the future potential. Values: They know what they stand for, what's non-negotiable. This is their moral compass, guiding them through tough decisions. Grit: They're not afraid to stand alone when necessary. They have the guts to say "no" to opportunities that don't align with their vision, even if it means facing criticism. Why It's Not Easy (But Totally Worth It) Let's be real, this path isn't always a walk in the park. Being an uncompromising leader means: Facing Doubt: People will question you. They'll tell you you're wrong, that it can't be done. You'll have to find the strength to trust your gut. Making Tough Calls: Some decisions will be unpopular. You might have to cut ties with people or projects that aren't serving your vision. Constantly Learning: You'll need to be self-aware, always seeking ways to improve and adapt while staying true to your core. So, How Do You Get There? Dig Deep: What makes you tick? What are your non-negotiables? Get crystal clear on your values and priorities. Craft Your Vision: What do you want to build? What impact do you want to make? Paint a detailed picture of your future. Build Your Tribe: Surround yourself with people who get it, who will support you, challenge you, and call you out when needed. Take Bold Action: Don't just dream, do. Start small if you have to, but keep moving forward. Learn from your mistakes and adjust along the way. The World Needs Your Uncompromising Leadership If you've ever felt like an outsider because you refuse to compromise your values, know this: You're not alone, and you're not wrong. We need more leaders who have the courage to stand for something, to create positive change in a world that desperately needs it. Embrace your uncompromising spirit. It's your superpower. What are your thoughts on uncompromising leadership? Share your stories and experiences in the comments below! Until next time, keep leading authentically.  

Welcome to the Self Aware Leader Podcast with Jason Rigby. In this episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Scott Freidheim, author of "Code of Conduct," a memoir and guide to crafting your own principles in an increasingly complex world. Scott takes us on a journey through the extraordinary highs and challenging lows of his life, from the boardrooms of Wall Street to the personal brink of bankruptcy. Through tales of adversity and triumph, close encounters with global leaders, and life-changing moments of clarity, Scott distills 32 chapters of noble tenets and moral insights. In this episode, we explore several key themes from Scott's book: Bravery: Scott shares his harrowing experience during the 9/11 attacks and the critical decision-making moment that likely saved many lives. Gratitude: We discuss the profound impact of first responders and the importance of recognizing their selfless service. Compassion: Scott reflects on a haunting encounter with mental illness and the need for a compassionate approach to mental health. Humility: We explore Scott's journey from aggressive collegiate soccer player to a leader who understands the value of humility in personal growth and success. Ethics and Accountability: Scott shares stories that highlight the importance of ethical leadership and personal responsibility in the face of challenges and setbacks. Strategy and Relentlessness: We dive into Scott's experiences at Kenmore and ettain group, discussing the role of strategic thinking, leveraging partnerships, and persevering through adversity. Throughout the episode, we reflect on the essence of living deliberately, inspired by the resilience and insights of Scott Freidheim's remarkable journey. This conversation isn't merely about listening to a captivating story; it's an invitation to reflect on your own values, consider what drives you, and deliberate on how you navigate the freedoms and trials of life. Join us as we explore the wisdom and perspective needed to forge your own path, guided by the principles and experiences shared in "Code of Conduct."

We've all been there. Those moments as leaders when a project stalls, a key team member leaves, or that big initiative feels like it's crashing and burning. It's so easy to slip into a spiral: frustration, blame (at others or ourselves), and a sinking feeling of helplessness. That's the victim mentality, and as comfortable as it seems in the moment, it's incredibly destructive to our leadership. The Trap: How We Give Up Our Power Here's the thing about playing the victim: we surrender. We convince ourselves that our fate is out of our hands – bad luck, unfair bosses, you name it – anything but ourselves. Thoughts become a chorus of "I can't...", "This always happens to me...", or "Why bother, it's pointless...". It feels easier than taking a hard look in the mirror, but make no mistake, this is us putting ourselves at the mercy of every setback. We all want to feel in control as leaders. The victim mentality is the illusion of control, where it's somehow safer to wallow than to confront the hard choices ahead. Yet, the very act of choosing this mindset robs us of the true power we hold to shape our path. My Own Victim Trap (and Yours Too, Let's Be Honest) Let me get real for a minute. Early in my career, I had a boss who micromanaged everything, undermining my confidence at every turn. It was the perfect breeding ground for a victim mentality. I could blame her for my lack of progress, for feeling stifled and unseen. It WAS unfair...and it was also a dead-end. The day I decided enough was enough, wasn't about her changing. It was about me. Steps to Break the Cycle True leadership – the kind that changes teams, organizations, and even ourselves – demands we break free from this trap. Here's what's worked for me, and countless other leaders I've coached: Awareness is the Antidote: Catch yourself playing the victim. What are those inner monologues, the excuses? Journaling can be powerful here. Get brutally honest about the stories you tell yourself. This isn't about self-judgment, it's about seeing the pattern. Reframe to Empower: Those negative thoughts? Don't try to silence them, retrain them. "I can't present to this group" becomes "I need more prep to feel confident with this crowd". Instead of "why me?", ask "What might this experience teach me to become a more resilient leader?" You Do Have a Choice: We can't control everything, but response is always OURS. Taking responsibility doesn't mean being at fault. It means owning the fact that YOU can chart the course ahead, even if that's course-correcting from a mess. Your Tribe Matters: Mentors, a peer group, even a therapist – we weren't meant to tackle this alone. Find people who get real about leadership struggles and genuinely believe in you, even when you don't. Spirituality as a Strength (If It's Your Thing): For me, meditation and affirmations help quiet those self-critical voices. Others find strength in a sense of larger purpose. If spirituality plays a role in your life, let it be an anchor when the seas of leadership get stormy. Resilience: The Muscle We Build: Every time you fall flat, get back up, and dust yourself off, you're growing this muscle. Failing is how we learn. Embracing that is how we become unstoppable. This Isn't Easy, But It's ESSENTIAL There will be days the victim mentality whispers sweet nothings of surrender. That's when these steps become a lifeline. True power as a leader is not the absence of challenges, but our ability to meet them, learn, and rise stronger on the other side. The world needs more of that kind of leadership, don't you think? Let me know in the comments – what's been YOUR biggest victim mentality trap?  

Dear Self Aware Leaders Just this week, I stepped onto a plane headed for a much-needed work trip. As the familiar safety briefing began, the flight attendant's voice caught my attention. "Remember," she said, "in case of an emergency, please secure your own oxygen mask before assisting others." Her next words hit me with newfound resonance: "...even though this trip is to Miami, I don't want to see any of you underwater." It was a playful reminder, but it struck a deeper chord. In the heart of leadership, amongst its demands and the noble drive to serve, lies a paradox: we must sometimes withdraw to truly give. We all know the flight attendant's instructions—secure your own oxygen mask before assisting others. But as leaders, do we truly live this principle? I believe nurturing our own spirit is the most generous act we can perform for our teams and the world we seek to impact. When we deplete ourselves, it's not just our personal energy that suffers. Our clarity dims, our empathy wanes, and our ability to inspire becomes strained. Without meaning to, we may offer a diminished version of our leadership potential. Yet, when we prioritize our own wellness—not as a luxury but as a sacred responsibility – something profound happens. We refill our inner reserves. Just as a wellspring nourishes the land, we become sources of resilience, wisdom, and unwavering compassion for those we lead. So, how do we nurture ourselves, especially in demanding roles? Title: Dear Exhausted Leader: It's Time to Put YOUR Oxygen Mask On First Dear Self Aware Leaders Just this week, I stepped onto a plane headed for a much-needed work trip. As the familiar safety briefing began, the flight attendant's voice caught my attention. "Remember," she said, "in case of an emergency, please secure your own oxygen mask before assisting others." Her next words hit me with newfound resonance: "...even though this trip is to Miami, I don't want to see any of you underwater." It was a playful reminder, but it struck a deeper chord. In the heart of leadership, amongst its demands and the noble drive to serve, lies a paradox: we must sometimes withdraw to truly give. We all know the flight attendant's instructions—secure your own oxygen mask before assisting others. But as leaders, do we truly live this principle? I believe nurturing our own spirit is the most generous act we can perform for our teams and the world we seek to impact. When we deplete ourselves, it's not just our personal energy that suffers. Our clarity dims, our empathy wanes, and our ability to inspire becomes strained. Without meaning to, we may offer a diminished version of our leadership potential. Yet, when we prioritize our own wellness—not as a luxury but as a sacred responsibility – something profound happens. We refill our inner reserves. Just as a wellspring nourishes the land, we become sources of resilience, wisdom, and unwavering compassion for those we lead. So, how do we nurture ourselves, especially in demanding roles? 1. Embrace Sacred Pauses: Carve out dedicated moments in your day for stillness—even a few minutes of mindful breathing or a walk in nature. These aren't indulgences, but the very act of replenishing the well from which you give. 2. Discover Joy's Power: Actively fill your life with what brings you true joy. This isn't about frivolous escapes, but honoring the unique things that light up your soul. A joyful leader radiates inspiration. 3. Boundaries as Love: Saying 'no' with grace can be the most loving act. It protects your energy for the tasks that truly need your unique leadership. Train yourself, and your team, to respect your boundaries. 4. Seek Growth with Humility: There's always more to learn, more ways to see. Embrace a beginner's mindset, seek out mentors, engage in personal development. This isn't about striving, but expanding your capacity to serve. 5. Honor the Body Temple: Your body is integral to your leadership. Mindfully nourish it with healthy foods, movement, and rest. A vibrant body steadies your spirit against the storms of the work world. 6. Community as Sustenance: We are never meant to lead alone. Nurture a circle of trusted friends, colleagues, or a mentor where you can be vulnerable, receive honest feedback and be buoyed by authentic support. Remember, this is a journey, not a destination. Some days will be harder than others. Embrace self-compassion—the most crucial skill for any leader. Be gentle when you fall short, then resolve to refocus. Just as a flight attendant reminds passengers of the safety priority, bring gentle reminders to your own mind. The world needs leaders who operate from wholeness, presence, and a heart overflowing with love. Let's choose to model that, starting with how we love ourselves. Each time you put your own 'oxygen mask' on, you grant permission for your team and those you serve to do the same. We rise together. With warmth and encouragement, Carve out dedicated moments in your day for stillness—even a few minutes of mindful breathing or a walk in nature. These aren't indulgences, but the very act of replenishing the well from which you give. 2. Discover Joy's Power: Actively fill your life with what brings you true joy. This isn't about frivolous escapes, but honoring the unique things that light up your soul. A joyful leader radiates inspiration. 3. Boundaries as Love: Saying 'no' with grace can be the most loving act. It protects your energy for the tasks that truly need your unique leadership. Train yourself, and your team, to respect your boundaries. 4. Seek Growth with Humility: There's always more to learn, more ways to see. Embrace a beginner's mindset, seek out mentors, engage in personal development. This isn't about striving, but expanding your capacity to serve. 5. Honor the Body Temple: Your body is integral to your leadership. Mindfully nourish it with healthy foods, movement, and rest. A vibrant body steadies your spirit against the storms of the work world. 6. Community as Sustenance: We are never meant to lead alone. Nurture a circle of trusted friends, colleagues, or a mentor where you can be vulnerable, receive honest feedback and be buoyed by authentic support. Remember, this is a journey, not a destination. Some days will be harder than others. Embrace self-compassion—the most crucial skill for any leader. Be gentle when you fall short, then resolve to refocus. Just as a flight attendant reminds passengers of the safety priority, bring gentle reminders to your own mind. The world needs leaders who operate from wholeness, presence, and a heart overflowing with love. Let's choose to model that, starting with how we love ourselves. Each time you put your own 'oxygen mask' on, you grant permission for your team and those you serve to do the same. We rise together. With warmth and encouragement, Jason