Not too long ago, I was coaching my 13-year-old daughter about managing her emotions. Being a new teen, it’s challenging for her to avoid being swept away by her feelings, especially when navigating the complexities of her social circle. I shared an analogy with her that I call “Lead Like a Tree: Staying Rooted in a World Full of Kites.”
A kite is at the mercy of the wind, pivoting quickly from one direction to another, entirely dependent on its environment. In contrast, a tree stands tall, rooted in its core values, drawing strength from within before responding to external forces.
This analogy resonates just as much in leadership as it does in life. Just like a tree, we must cultivate the habit of pausing and grounding ourselves, especially in moments of chaos or heightened emotions. Trees are unshaken by external forces because their roots run deep, anchoring them firmly. Similarly, as leaders, we need to establish our “roots”—our core values, convictions, and sense of self—so we don’t get swept away by the emotional storms of others.
This approach ties closely to the idea of priming, which I mentioned in a recent post. When we’re mindful of the energy we bring into a situation, we’re less likely to be influenced by the emotional highs and lows of those around us. Instead of reacting impulsively, we can pause, reflect, and act with intention. This creates a ripple effect, allowing us to lead from a place of strength and stability.
The next time you find yourself triggered by the emotions or actions of others, remember the tree analogy: Stay rooted. Stay grounded. Take a moment to reflect—breathe deeply, consult your inner wisdom, and explore all possible angles before responding. By pausing and going inward, you ensure that your actions align with your values rather than being dictated by external pressures.
This practice is the foundation of conscious leadership. It’s how you develop the self-awareness and emotional resilience necessary to lead with confidence and clarity. Over time, strengthening this “leadership muscle” will not only transform the way you respond to challenges but also inspire others to do the same.
If you’re ready to explore how you can deepen this approach and bring more intentionality into your leadership, consider the coaching bundles now available. Whether you’re a new or seasoned leader, having a guide by your side can help you navigate your journey with confidence. Feel free to reach out here on the website with any questions!
With love,
Daphne
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