How do you rise and lead when you’re experiencing grief, loss and trauma? And my short answer today is, “I don’t fucking know.”
Today’s episode is a little different than those we’ve had so far. It’s brief, more personal, and sometimes confessional. But always real, vulnerable and created with the intention of leaving you connected and inspired as a leader.
This past week, a friend of mine died horribly and tragically, and I’m grieving the loss. I’m vacillating between sadness and rage and gratitude and pushing all those feelings down. I’m looking at the world with a particular set of eyes because this loss popped the top off so much bottled-up anguish that I feel as a human being in this country and on the planet.
So that’s what I want to talk about. How to show up and lead (or not) when you’re dealing with loss, trauma, or any of the other hurdles life throws in our path when we’re least expecting it. And if that’s you too right now, my Good Woman, please know that I am sending you my love, my support, and compassion – and especially sending you big hugs.
This episode at a glance:
[01:47] Dealing with the torrent of feelings that come with grief, loss, trauma and life in 2022.
[03:05] Holding onto your feelings because of how you think you’re “supposed” to behave as a leader. People are counting on you and there’s always stuff that “must get done.”
[04:58] Leadership does not mean showing up perfectly every time. Giving yourself space and grace to process the emotions in front of you.
[06:12] Accessing the resources you need to feel and process your emotions, whatever they might be for you.
[06:40] It’s not your responsibility as a female leader to keep your emotions under wraps because you’re concerned people will think you’re too hysterical or emotional. Don’t go numb.