Your reaction can make or break a conversation.

I’ve coached leaders whose progress stalled, not from poor decisions, but from poor reactions.

A heavy sigh. A sharply noted message or email. A visible eye roll. These small signals tell a bigger story. 🙄 🙄 🙄

Personal Story:

I can remember a time that I reacted with exasperation at a colleague in my office, simply because she had not done what I asked her to do. Did I pause to consider what else was going on for her? Did I step back, take a breath, and bring a lens of curiosity?

Nope! And by reacting as I did; I eroded an already crumbling foundation in that relationship that went on to bite me in the you-know-what for the remaining time we worked together. Yup, I’m human too, and we all have our moments. But, wake up people: we must all (myself included) slow down and check our emotions!

Powerful leaders don’t just know what to say, they know how to respond under pressure.

The way you manage your reactions determines how others experience your leadership.

🧭 This week’s reflection:

Are your reactions building trust—or breaking it? Every response you give whether verbal or nonverbal, tells others how safe, stable, and credible you are under pressure.

➡️ Ask yourself: Would I trust someone who reacted the way I just did?

This week, notice one moment where you feel triggered.

Choose to pause. Then choose your response. Notice if you feel a shift.

🔥 Practice the Power of the Pause
Mastering your reactions isn’t easy, but it’s one of the fastest ways to elevate your leadership.

If you’re ready to lead with intention and calm, I’d love to support you. Let’s schedule a call and create a strategy that keeps you grounded in your personal power. DM me or drop a comment below 👇🏽 and I’ll reach out.

#leadership #emotionalintelligence #personaldevelopment #management This month’s weekly newsletters are all part of Strategy #8 for 2025: Get your emotions and reactions in check so that you stay grounded in your own personal power. (More important now than ever!)