…and Realize We Can Survive

So much of leadership is about managing fear—fear of failure, of unknown outcomes, and of others’ expectations. Transformative Learning Theory (Jack Mezirow) suggests that powerful learning occurs when we face challenging, even uncomfortable experiences. When we push through these moments and “survive,” it can profoundly shift our understanding of ourselves and the world.

We’ve all felt this: whether it was speaking in front of an audience for the first time or navigating a tough interview process. It may have been difficult and disorienting, but we made it through.

The more we embrace hard situations, the more comfortable we become with the uncertainties of leadership. If we avoid difficult conversations or hard decisions, the more we tell ourselves that we won’t survive those challenges until that belief becomes reality. 

What kind of leader do you want to be?