Welcome to Leadership Insights! Each week, we curate transformative leadership insights and add our own expertise to help you lead with purpose and impact. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, you’ll find actionable wisdom in every edition.
Have you ever considered the power of a pause? In leadership, silence can be one of the most impactful tools in your toolkit. When faced with a tough question, a heated discussion, or even a brainstorming session, pausing for a few seconds before you respond can transform the outcome.
This week, practice the “5-second rule” in your conversations. When someone finishes speaking, resist the urge to fill the silence immediately. Instead, wait five seconds before responding. This pause not only gives you time to think more clearly but also signals to others that you value their input, encouraging deeper dialogue and creativity. Leadership isn’t always about having the fastest answer—it’s about fostering the best conversation.
This Week’s Posts We Love
LinkedIn Spotlight Post by Nardeen Aziz
This post from Nardeen Aziz is a powerful reminder that every resignation holds a message. As leaders, it’s easy to rush into action—reposting the job, refilling the seat—but the real work starts with reflection. Even when the answers are hard to face, asking the right questions helps us grow. Pause before you replace—what is this exit trying to teach you?
Click Here to Check Out The Full LI Post
Podcast Spotlight: Mick Unplugged, Unpacking Trust as a Leadership Superpower
This week’s podcast spotlight is from a new favorite: Mick Unplugged by Mick Hunt. In this episode, Dr. Darryl Stickel breaks down the mechanics of trust—and why so many leaders unknowingly struggle to build it. His insights on vulnerability, uncertainty, and what really drives connection are both eye-opening and practical. Give it a listen and ask yourself: how are you showing up when it comes to trust?
Listen to the Full Episode Here
Book of the Week
How to Listen with Intention: The Foundation of True Connection, Communication, and Relationships by Patrick King
This week’s must-read for leaders is How to Listen with Intention by Patrick King, a powerful guide to mastering the art of deep, meaningful listening. In an era where genuine connection is rare, this book provides actionable strategies to build trust, create rapport, and strengthen relationships through active and reflective listening. Leaders who can truly hear and understand others will not only enhance collaboration and empathy but also become trusted allies in any setting.
Must-Read Article of the Week
“The Contagion of Happiness” by Jessica Cerretani
In “The Contagion of Happiness,” Harvard Medicine Magazine explores how happiness extends beyond individual well-being, influencing social networks and communities. The article discusses research indicating that happiness can spread through social connections, affecting individuals up to three degrees of separation. This must-read article highlights the importance of fostering positive relationships, demonstrating how a leader’s happiness can permeate their organization, enhancing overall morale and productivity.
From the CARE to Lead® Archives
How To Prevent Communication Breakdowns In The Workplace
Ever sent a quick email that sparked a big misunderstanding? You’re not alone. This week’s throwback blog unpacks why communication breakdowns happen—especially over email—and offers simple strategies to prevent them. A few extra seconds of clarity can save hours of confusion.
Closing Thoughts
Sometimes, the greatest impact comes from the smallest shift, like taking a moment to pause. How will you use silence to enhance your leadership this week? Let’s connect—find me on LinkedIn, Bluesky, YouTube, Facebook, or Instagram, and share what this practice has opened up for you.
Thank you for being part of our leadership community. We’re dedicated to helping you lead with Clarity, Authenticity, Responsibility, and Engagement. Until next week, keep raising the bar on your leadership journey!
