Sonia McDonald

Life’s toughest moments can lead to our greatest growth. ??? ? In my latest blog, I share how my husband’s abandonment—a moment that shattered my world—turned out to be the greatest gift of my life. It’s a story of resilience, rediscovery, and finding strength I never knew I had.? ? Read it now for a dose of inspiration and a reminder that even in darkness, we can find our light. ??? ? ?? https://lnkd.in/g976tUsY ? #PersonalGrowth #Resilience #FindingStrength #EmpoweredLiving

Your brilliance isn’t meant to be hidden—it’s meant to inspire, lead, and create change. So go ahead, shine brighter!

True leaders don’t shrink to fit expectations—they rise to make a difference. So, keep standing tall, being bold, and leading with purpose.

Leadership isn’t about the title—it’s about who you are and how you show up.? ? It’s your actions, values, and behaviours that define your leadership. So, ask yourself: What does leadership mean to YOU?? ? #LeadershipMindset #AuthenticLeadership #LeadByExample

Leadership isn’t about staying in your comfort zone. It’s about stepping up, standing tall, and owning your space unapologetically. ??? ? True leaders show up even when it’s tough because making an impact means being bold and brave.

What’s missing in leadership today? ?? Stop the Hamster Wheel: Leadership Needs a Connection Makeover! ?? So, what’s missing in leadership today? Connection. Real, human connection. ?? Let me set the scene: Picture leaders running from meeting to meeting, glued to their phones, overwhelmed by constant busyness. ???? It’s like being stuck in a never-ending hamster wheel, where even a brief pause feels impossible. ???? I once ran a leadership workshop where, halfway through, I noticed that no one was truly present. Eyes darted to phones, minds wandered to to-do lists. So, I did something unexpected: I asked everyone to stop, breathe, and put their phones away. ?? The discomfort in the room was palpable, but I insisted. Then, I invited them to engage in a simple exercise: share a story about a moment that shaped who they are today. At first, there was hesitation, but soon, the room filled with powerful, vulnerable stories. People listened—really listened. ???? The energy transformed, and for the first time, connection wasn’t just a buzzword. It was alive. That’s when it hit me: Leaders often forget that busyness doesn’t equal effectiveness. What drives real impact is showing up with heart, being present, and creating space for others to connect deeply. ??? Imagine what our workplaces could look like if leaders prioritized meaningful moments over frantic productivity. If we dared to pause, tune in, and show up for each other. ?? Leadership isn’t just about strategy and KPIs; it’s about people. Let’s stop mistaking busyness for success and start leading with connection. Who’s with me? ??♀???♂?

“Be a leader who makes others say, ‘Damn, I needed that energy today.’”

Welcome to the Leadership with Sonia Show – where we don’t just talk the talk, we walk the bold, sassy, unapologetic leadership walk. This isn’t your typical feel-good, fluffy live. Nope, we’re here to get real about what it takes to lead with focus, action, and a mindset that says, ‘I’ve got this.’ Start your day with gratitude, kick those doubts to the curb with affirmations, and pour your thoughts into some solid journaling – because self-reflection isn’t just for poetry, it’s for power. Here, we’re all about learning, growing, and getting stuff done. So, if you're ready to lead with your heart, mind, and a whole lot of grit, you’re in the right place. Let’s make it happen!" So how can you start leading like a woman today? Here are a few practical strategies: ? Challenge Your Inner Critic: One of the biggest barriers women face is internal – the voice that tells us we’re not good enough, smart enough, or experienced enough. It’s time to silence that voice. Practice self-compassion and remind yourself that you deserve to be where you are. You don’t need permission to lead. ? Network with Other Women: Surround yourself with a support system of women who uplift and inspire you. Building connections with other women in leadership not only helps you grow but also creates a ripple effect of empowerment. When one of us rises, we all rise. ? Be Bold and Take Risks: Don’t be afraid to take risks and step out of your comfort zone. Leadership requires boldness, and sometimes that means doing things that scare you. Whether it’s applying for that promotion, starting your own business, or leading a tough conversation – trust in your ability to handle whatever comes your way. ? Pay It Forward: As you climb, reach back and lift others. Mentorship and sponsorship are powerful ways to help other women rise. By supporting each other, we create a network of strong, capable women leaders who are ready to challenge the status quo. The journey to breaking leadership stereotypes isn’t easy, but it’s one that we’re more than capable of navigating. Leadership, at its core, isn’t about fitting into someone else’s box – it’s about showing up as yourself and leading in a way that feels authentic to you. Remember: being a woman in leadership is your strength, not your weakness. So lead with courage, lead with kindness, and most importantly, lead like a woman. Learn more at - https://lnkd.in/ffJC4rT https://lnkd.in/gw5QJpap https://lnkd.in/gWyZUF2

KINDNESS COSTS NOTHING...Kindness is the quiet force that conquers—steady, unshakable, and unapologetically bold. I am on a flight back right now from Melbourne after delivering our amazing leadership program, and I received this from the wonderful staff - thank you Virgin, Virgin Australia and Ulysses and Steve for your kindness too - you made my day

Recently a brilliant woman I am coaching in the engineering space got a promotion (yippie!) and then she heard through the rumour mill it was because she is female? Really! OMG! It's 2024?! Thoughts here as feeling super cranky and using this inner GRUMP GODDESS to get more women at the table!