Hi Friends! Can you tell I'm a fan girl of Jacinda Ardern?! Not only is she a leader born in the 80s (more and more of us coming on up!) but she also had a baby while in office, lead through the pandemic, and always showed up with a level head, empathy, and the determination to get sh*t done. This quote really hits home for me with the state of the US and World. It's so easy to feel negative, pull back, be offended, and shrink inward these days. It's a lot harder to look past the negativity and annoyance and reach out.

I was at dinner over the 4th of July weekend with family friends and national politics came up. After airing grievances one party goer said something to the effect that it was still important to him to listen to and understand why someone would vote for Trump. To which his wife said, why waste your time? He replied saying that he'd rather reach out and have the conversation to see if there was some common ground than to make his assumptions and shut the person out. Hmmm. I agree with both. I like to think I take the more open approach but a lot of the time I make the assumptions too and think "why waste my time?"

This is normal, right? I think so. And it's this quote that reminds me to keep reaching out instead of shutting out. Show up how I want others to show up.  

As Jacinda Ardern so eloquently puts it, looking outwardly and embracing kindness and collectivism can be the antidote to the isolation and negativity we sometimes face. This isn't just about politics or differing opinions—it's about fostering a spirit of understanding and community in all areas of our lives.

Think about the impact you can have by choosing to listen, to empathize, and to find common ground, even when it's challenging. Every small act of kindness, every effort to understand another's perspective, builds a bridge towards a more inclusive and compassionate world. 

Let’s challenge ourselves to step out of our comfort zones, to reach out instead of retreating, and to lead with kindness and empathy. By doing so, we not only inspire those around us but also pave the way for a more united and supportive community.

Remember, your actions, no matter how small, have the power to inspire and create change. Let's be the leaders who look outward, who choose kindness, and who believe in the collective strength of our communities. Together, we can make a difference.

Speaking of stepping outside your comfort zone... this is a great way to become a better leader. 

It's a powerful leadership strategy that fosters growth, innovation, and resilience. Here's why this leadership tip resonates, how to take action, and why it's so important:

Why It Resonates

1. Growth and Development: When you challenge yourself beyond familiar boundaries, you unlock new skills and perspectives. This growth not only enhances your abilities but also sets a precedent for continuous improvement.

2. Building Confidence: Facing and overcoming unfamiliar challenges builds confidence. Each step taken outside your comfort zone reinforces your capability to handle diverse situations, strengthening your leadership presence.

3. Inspiring Others: As a leader, your actions set the tone for your team. When you demonstrate the courage to step outside your comfort zone, you inspire others to do the same, fostering a culture of innovation and boldness.

How to Take Action

1. Identify Your Boundaries: Recognize the areas where you feel most comfortable and pinpoint where you need to stretch. It could be public speaking, handling conflict, or taking on a new project.

2. Set Small, Achievable Goals: Start with manageable steps that push your limits. For example, if public speaking is daunting, begin by speaking up more in meetings, then progress to presenting in front of larger groups.

3. Seek Support and Feedback: Engage with mentors, peers, or professional networks for support. Constructive feedback will help you refine your approach and build confidence in your abilities.

4. Reflect and Adapt: After each experience, reflect on what you learned and how it has contributed to your growth. Use these insights to adapt and set new challenges for yourself.

Staying competitive in a rapidly changing world requires adaptability, and leaders who step outside their comfort zones are better equipped to navigate uncertainty and seize new opportunities. Diverse experiences enhance critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, which are essential for effective leadership. Additionally, exploring the unknown drives innovation, as new ideas and approaches often arise from venturing into unfamiliar territory. By modeling this behavior, you not only empower your team to take risks and embrace challenges but also foster a culture of continuous improvement and resilience. Embrace the discomfort, take calculated risks, and watch how it transforms your leadership journey.

World Leading Psychologist: How to Master Your Emotions and Deal with Negative People

Wouldn't you know, Mel Robbins brings this episode to help you listen to your emotions and deal with negative people. It's like I'm not the only one trying to manage it! This interview has some really great tips, advice, and rooted in the science behind how our brains work. Check it out and let me know your thoughts!