It’s been a minute I know but God has a sneaky way of pulling us right back towards purpose. My focus word for 2026 happens to be “Alignment” so what are the chances that writing this article this morning isn’t just a coincidence.
I celebrated my birthday in January and all I have been doing since then is reflecting, and it so happens that leadership has been a huge part of my life’s journey.
So many people tell me that I make leadership look easy and as I reflect today, admittedly, I am truly sorry for giving anyone this false impression.
Because someone carries it well doesn’t mean it isn’t heavy. This is one of the truths that has been sitting with me lately, causing me to reflect quite a bit on my leadership journey.
I have been told numerous times that I make it look easy. Honestly guys, for this I am truly sorry!
Leadership has a way of asking you to hold weight quietly. To show up confidently, composed, decisive and steady; all while managing realities that very few people ever see.
As a leader, you serve many “masters.” You serve your team, who seldom have all the facts because discretion in leadership is necessary. So they go off and form their own stories.
You serve your Board and executive team, who rightfully expect results, yet get to sit on the sidelines removed from the daily complexities of leading through people and personalities while you try to shape a culture that’s constantly fluid.
You serve your peers and other stakeholders, some of whom believe that they can set your priorities. This may create tension when you start to enforce boundaries.
And then there is your personal life, which you may be forced to mask even though your house is burning. Why? Because pausing to have your moment isn’t your current reality.
It’s easy to admire outcomes without understanding the cost. The tradeoff, the sacrifices that need to be made or the tensions you may face. It’s easy to resent what you’ve never had to carry!
In leadership the reality is that people see your glory, but they don’t know your story. If they experienced every burden of leadership or had to confront every Goliath, they might think twice.
Leadership does have its rewards but let’s be honest here…..it is not for the faint of heart.
Always remember, because someone is carrying it well doesn’t mean it isn’t heavy. Let’s make room for each other and a more conscious effort to show each other GRACE.
The journey continues….
Life Lessons 