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As we prepare to welcome a new year, it’s natural to focus on fresh goals and aspirations. But often, the most significant breakthroughs don’t come from adding more to our plates—they come from shedding what no longer serves us. What Leaders Need to Shed in 2025 highlights the powerful opportunity to let go of habits, beliefs, and practices that may be holding us back. Shedding isn’t about loss; it’s about creating space for alignment, clarity, and growth.


A hand reaching out to three butterflies in sunlight, with a blurred natural background. Warm tones create a serene and peaceful mood.
A gentle hand extends into the sunlight as three butterflies flutter gracefully above, capturing a moment of tranquility and freedom in nature.

Here are five things leaders can shed to step into 2025 with renewed purpose:


1️⃣ The Pressure to Have All the Answers

Gone are the days when leaders were expected to be infallible know-it-alls. Today, the best leaders embrace curiosity and collaboration. Let go of the need to have every solution. Instead, lean on your team’s collective brilliance, and watch how empowering others fosters creativity and innovation. I actually have an entire chapter devoted to this in my new book Beyond The First-Year Principal! Make sure to grab your copy when it launches in a couple of weeks!


2️⃣ Outdated Priorities

Not every task or initiative deserves your attention. It’s time to critically evaluate what truly aligns with your vision and values. Holding onto projects or processes out of habit drains your energy and your team’s momentum. Focus your efforts on what drives impact and moves the needle forward.


3️⃣ The Fear of Delegation

Delegation can feel risky, especially if you’re used to doing it all yourself. But holding on too tightly limits both your growth and the potential of your team. Trusting others to take ownership not only lightens your load but also gives them the opportunity to shine. Remember, empowering others doesn’t diminish your role—it magnifies your leadership.


4️⃣ The Mask of Invincibility

Many leaders believe they need to appear strong and unshakable at all times. But true connection and trust are built through vulnerability. Letting go of the invincibility mask allows you to show up authentically and encourages others to do the same. Your willingness to be human makes you relatable and fosters deeper bonds with your team.


5️⃣ The Guilt Around Work-Life Balance

(Women, listen-up) Work-life balance often feels like an impossible ideal. Instead of chasing perfection, focus on creating harmony. Shed the guilt of prioritizing yourself outside of work. Whether it’s dedicating time to family, hobbies, or self-care, nurturing your life beyond work strengthens your ability to lead with clarity and intention.


As you step into 2025, ask yourself: What am I ready to shed? The process of letting go can feel uncomfortable, but it’s essential for growth. By shedding what no longer aligns with your vision, you make room for new opportunities, deeper connections, and a more purposeful path forward.


This year, don’t just set resolutions—resolve to shed what weighs you down. Your leadership will thank you.


Now, over to you, please share how you will be releasing in 2025!


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Communication isn’t just about what you say—it’s about making sure your message is fully understood. Are you really being understood? Too often, we assume we’re on the same page, only to discover gaps in understanding later. That’s where looping for understanding comes in—a powerful technique that ensures clarity and alignment in your conversations.


Title of text with questioning emoji
Are your really being understood?


So, what is looping? It’s a simple process where you confirm understanding by restating or summarizing what was heard. This technique reduces miscommunication, builds trust, and strengthens collaboration. Imagine how much smoother your meetings and relationships could be when everyone is truly on the same page!





Here’s how to start looping for understanding:


1️⃣ Listen Actively: Pay attention not just to words but also to tone and body language.

2️⃣ Paraphrase: Repeat what you heard in your own words to confirm understanding.

3️⃣ Confirm: Ask the other person, “Did I get that right?” or “Is this what you meant?”


This technique is especially powerful for leaders. It shows your team you value their input, encourages open dialogue, and helps resolve conflicts with precision and mutual understanding. When people feel heard, they’re more likely to contribute meaningfully and collaborate effectively.


If you’re ready to start looping, here are a few quick tips to get you started:


✅ Pause after someone speaks—don’t rush to respond.

✅ Use phrases like, “So, what I’m hearing is…” or “Let me make sure I understand…”

✅ Be open to feedback and adjust if needed.


If you’re feeling stuck on your leadership journey right now, click the chat bubble on this site to connect. Let’s work together to craft a plan that empowers you to thrive and lead your next chapter with greater focus and clarity. Know someone who could benefit from these words? Share this blog with them—they might need it just as much as you do!


Here's to your leadership journey!

Daphne

I had the absolute pleasure of being featured on Boreal Scribes, a series on Eastlink TV, this week!


What an incredible experience it was to share my journey as an author on Boreal Scribes and dive into the stories behind my writing process and coaching journey. Reflecting on how my books came to life, the inspiration behind my words, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way was truly an honor.


Writing has always been a way for me to connect, inspire, and empower others—and coaching allows me to do the same in a more personal and transformative way. Having the chance to speak about both on a platform that celebrates Northern voices and creativity was so much fun!


Thank you, Boreal Scribes and Eastlink TV, for this unforgettable opportunity.


If you missed the episode, I shared insights into balancing creativity with purpose, and I hope it inspires you to embrace your own passions. You can watch it here! Make sure to leave a comment to share your takeaways!



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