This Is Where Your Power Lies

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Best-selling author Mel Robbins recently appeared on the popular podcast?The Pivot, hosted by former NFL players Channing Crowder, Fred Taylor, and Ryan Clark. The conversation was raw, real, and actionable, offering insights that leaders at all levels can deeply resonate with.

Robbins’ journey is a powerful testament to resilience and self-discovery. She candidly shared some of the lowest points in her life: losing her job at 41, being $800,000 in debt, and feeling like a failure as a parent on the brink of divorce. She spoke about the shame and frustration of hiding her struggles from family and friends, feeling trapped in a cycle of despair with no clear way out.

Yet, this rock-bottom moment became the catalyst for Robbins' transformation. It compelled her to uncover tools and mindset shifts that she now shares with millions worldwide. Her story underscores a universal truth for us as leaders: adversity is not the end—it’s often the beginning of something far more sacred, provided we stay the course and keep showing up.

As leaders, we all recognize areas of our lives where we fall short. Whether in personal relationships, professional endeavors, or our own self-growth, there are moments when we feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected. Robbins’ work—from?The 5 Second Rule?to her latest book,?The Let Them Theory—dives deep into the art of overcoming this sense of disconnect.

When asked on?The Pivot?about a pivotal moment in her life, Robbins shared a profound insight that inspires reflection and introspection:

“Understand that knowledge is up here, right?” Robbins said, pointing to her head.

“So is anxiety, so is self-doubt, so is hesitation, so is overwhelm. When you are up here in your head, you’re disconnected from source, your heart. You’re disconnected from your body, from your soul, from what you believe that is deeper. From love. One of the things that has made a huge pivot [for me] is the ability to drop in at a moment to my heart. This is where our power is. Connecting to the source of your power inside yourself. Connecting to being grounded in the moment. Connecting to what you know to be true here. When you can live that way, be present that way, and keep showing up that way, it’s unbelievable how your life changes. It’s unbelievable what you can create.”

Robbins’ reflection offers valuable guidance for leaders navigating uncertainty, self-doubt, and the complexities of life and their roles. Here’s how we can apply her wisdom:

1. Recognize When You’re Stuck in Your Head: Pause and identify the signs of being mentally overwhelmed—overthinking, hesitation, or self-doubt. Awareness is the first step to change.
2. Drop Into Your Heart: Shift your focus from your head to your heart. This can be as simple as taking deep breaths, placing your hand over your chest, and tuning into the present moment. Ask yourself:?What do I know to be true right now?
3. Reconnect with Your Core Values: Your heart is a compass that guides you toward what matters most. Reflect on your core values and how they align with your decisions and actions.
4. Practice Grounded Presence: Leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about putting down our devices, silencing the distractions, and practicing presence. Whether you’re navigating a critical conversation, tackling a challenge, or reflecting in solitude, cultivating presence with yourself and those you lead enhances your ability to show up more authentically and connect on a deeper level.
5. Embrace Small, Courageous Steps: Change doesn’t require monumental leaps. Robbins’?The 5 Second Rule?demonstrates the power of small, brave actions. Whether it’s making a decision, addressing a fear, or starting a new habit, small steps lead to big transformations.

Robbins’ story and insights empower us to reconsider?where?we’re leading from: Are we stuck in our heads, overwhelmed by doubts and fears? Or are we connected to our hearts, grounded in presence, and aligned with our deepest truths?

As you navigate the week ahead, take a moment to pause and reflect. When challenges arise, pause. Drop out of your head and into your heart. Reconnect with your source.

By embracing this approach, we can discover not only greater clarity and connection but also an expanded capacity to lead—with greater love, authenticity, courage, and impact.