We often think of Leadership as a steady climb to success—a series of strategic moves, decisive actions, and confident wins. But the reality is far more complex. Sometimes, despite your best efforts and an iron-clad, proven track record, you hit a wall—a moment when your resilience is tested and your sense of self is shaken.
For me, that moment came during my final year as leader of a local business association. After years of building partnerships, leading initiatives, and expanding influence for business, non-profit and government leaders, I found myself confronted by a handful of stakeholders who disagreed with our philosophy on expanding our reach. I felt that expansion was necessary because new growth leads to impactful, financially-viable programs and better service to our new, diverse member base.
I tried to reconcile how to move forward. Should we retreat or stay the course?
It didn’t take long to realize that I was no longer aligned with the position I held. It was a lonely feeling. I questioned whether this one chapter would overshadow a lifetime of commitment and award-winning public service and results.
I started to really ponder these questions and learned that leadership is not just about maintaining control or proving yourself over and over. It’s also about recognizing when something no longer aligns with your values or well-being.
That realization was a turning point. Vulnerability became my teacher. Owning my feelings of disappointment, acknowledging the personal toll, and allowing myself to pause and reflect was a real act of courage.
Flipping my own narrative wasn’t easy. I had to move beyond the instinct to fight or justify myself. I chose to step back, reflect, and see this experience as a deep leadership lesson. Sometimes, the most resilient thing you can do is let go. Let go of the need for external validation. Let go of resentment. Embrace the opportunity to grow. Reclaim your sense of purpose.
Stepping away gave me space to reconnect with myself. My mission hasn’t changed. I am still deeply committed to leading with integrity, fostering collaboration, valuing the greater good, and making a difference. But my approach is evolving. I’m now more intentional about balancing my passion for community service with self-care, reflection, and alignment.
As I look ahead, I realize that vulnerability is not a weakness. It’s a powerful tool for growth. By acknowledging struggles, we create space for new opportunities and a clearer vision. Letting go is not giving up—it’s moving forward, freed from the weight of the past.
To fellow leaders facing similar challenges – here’s my advice. Own your story, even the difficult parts. Stand in your truth and redefine success on your terms.
Leadership is not about never faltering. It’s about rising stronger, with grace, clarity and purpose. It’s about knowing that you have the courage and the authenticity to reclaim yourself.