Every year, you were reminded to use it. Your manager approved it. HR tracked it. If you didn't take those days, you could lose them. The system wasn't perfect, but it nudged you toward something important: stepping away from work.

Nobody does that for you anymore.

If you’re between jobs, consulting, freelancing, or trying to figure out what’s next, nobody’s checking. Only you.

And to make it all just a little worse, you’re probably working harder than you realize.

You’re refreshing job boards before you’ve had your first coffee. Redoing your résumé yet again. Networking. Learning AI. Following up. Preparing for interviews. Wondering if today will be the day someone finally replies.

That’s work.

A lot of work.

The only thing that’s disappeared is the permission to rest.

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The holiday I ruined before I even took it

Years ago, when I first moved to Geneva and was looking for work, I refused to plan a holiday.

My reasoning seemed completely logical.

“What if someone calls while I’m away?”

Surely the perfect opportunity would appear the moment I left. So of course, I had to be available every minute.

So I postponed.

And postponed.

And…well, you get the idea.

A few weeks became a few months.

My partner wasn’t nearly as convinced by my reasoning as I was. Nor was he particularly happy about its impact.

Eventually we went away.

Except I never really left.

I checked my email over breakfast. I refreshed job portals whenever I had a spare moment. Even sitting somewhere beautiful, part of my brain stayed firmly in Geneva, wondering whether I’d missed an opportunity.

I went on a holiday.

I never actually took one.

I came home just as tired as when I’d left.

For years I thought the lesson was that holidays were a luxury I couldn’t afford during a job search.

Now I think the lesson was exactly the opposite.

Why taking time off matters

Many of us treat rest as something we earn.

I’ll take a break once I get the offer.

Once I land the client.

Once I finish this course.

Once things settle down.

The problem is that “once” keeps moving.

Researcher Jessica de Bloom has spent years studying what vacations actually do for our wellbeing. The findings are encouraging and surprisingly practical. Time away genuinely improves our mood, energy, and mental health.

But those benefits fade fairly quickly after we return to normal life.

At first, that sounds disappointing.

I see it differently now.

We don’t stop eating because yesterday’s lunch doesn’t last forever.

We don’t exercise once and expect lifelong fitness.

Rest works the same way.

It’s not a reward you collect after surviving months of stress.

It’s fuel that helps you keep going.

That completely changed how I think about taking time off during a career transition.

The goal isn’t one perfect two-week holiday.

It’s creating regular opportunities for your mind to recover.

The time away isn’t what makes it restorative

Another researcher, Sabine Sonnentag, has spent decades studying what actually helps people recover from work.

Her research points to four key ingredients.

Looking back, my Geneva holiday had almost none of them.

First, you have to mentally disconnect.

Not “check LinkedIn less.”

Actually stop.

Your location matters much less than whether you’re still refreshing job alerts from your phone.

Second, you need moments of genuine relaxation.

Not an itinerary packed so tightly that your holiday becomes another project to manage.

Third, you need a sense of control.

During a job search, so much is outside your hands. Applications disappear into what seems like a giant black hole. Interview timelines change. Decisions belong to someone else.

Choosing how you spend your own day reminds you that not everything is out of your control.

Finally, you need mastery.

Do something you’re already good at.

Cook.

Take a photo.

Paint.

Swim.

Practice a language.

Garden.

Hike.

Play music.

Read.

When so much of your life revolves around proving yourself to strangers, spending time doing something that reminds you you’re already capable is surprisingly restorative.

That’s what I missed in Geneva.

I had beautiful scenery.

What I didn’t have was a real break.

“But what if they call?”

This is the question almost everyone asks.

Here’s my answer.

Then you reply when you get back.

Or you offer an interview the following week.

That’s it.

People do this every day.

Parents on family holidays.

Professionals taking annual leave.

Executives traveling overseas.

No recruiter expects candidates to be available every minute of every day (and do you really want the job if they do).

You’re allowed to have a life while looking for your next job.

In fact, you’ll probably interview better because of it.

Researchers studying job-search fatigue have found that prolonged searching without enough recovery creates exactly what you’d expect: emotional exhaustion, lower motivation, and reduced effectiveness.

It’s driven by financial stress, uncertainty, and the isolation that often comes with being out of work.

Most of us don’t notice it happening.

We just feel deflated, less our best selves.

The enthusiasm disappears.

The curiosity disappears.

Everything starts to feel heavier.

A rested brain doesn’t just feel better.

It performs better.

A meaningful break doesn’t have to be expensive

This is where people often stop listening.

“I can’t afford a holiday.”

Sometimes that’s absolutely true.

But many times, what we’re really saying is, “I can’t justify taking one.”

Those aren’t the same thing.

I’m writing this while traveling.

So far I’ve taken 3 of 5 flights using points and miles. The only cash I’ve paid for the flights has been the taxes. I also spent two nights in a five-star hotel using credit card points and a reward.

That doesn’t happen by accident.

It’s a skill anyone can learn.

But even if you don’t collect points, meaningful breaks don’t have to cost very much.

Travel during the off-season instead of peak summer.

Take a train instead of flying.

Stay with friends.

Spend three nights away instead of ten.

Visit the town you’ve always meant to explore that’s only an hour away.

Or stay home.

Yes, a staycation counts.

There’s just one condition.

Don’t spend those days sitting in the same chair where you’ve been writing applications for the last three months.

Your brain associates that space with stress.

Go somewhere different.

Spend a day at the beach.

Visit a nearby city.

Walk through a botanical garden.

Take a ferry.

Find a museum you’ve never visited.

Read in the park.

The point isn’t luxury.

The point is creating enough distance for your brain to remember that life is bigger than your job search.

This week’s exercise

Set aside fifteen minutes.

Before you decide where you’re going, decide when.

Block three (or more) days on your calendar.

Then build your break around Sonnentag’s four recovery ingredients.

Ask yourself:

• What will help me completely disconnect from the search?

• When will I genuinely slow down?

• What choices will I make simply because I want to?

• What skill or hobby reminds me I’m good at something that has nothing to do with finding work?

Finally, write the email now that you’ll send if a recruiter contacts you while you’re away.

Having the response ready removes most of the anxiety before it starts.

This Week’s AI prompts

Plan your break:

How to reply if contacted:

Summer is almost over.

If you haven’t taken a break yet, consider this your reminder.

Not because you’ve “earned it”.

Not because your search is finished.

Because you deserve (and need) to show up with more energy than exhaustion.

Sometimes the most productive thing you can do for your career is step away from it for a few days.

Better together,

Andrea

P.S. If you’d like me to put together a brief, but practical guide on how I use points and miles to travel for less of the usual cost, reply with the word “points.” If enough people are interested, I’ll create it.

Every cover letter mirrors the job description back at the hiring manager. Answers that sound good but say nothing. Generic applications that could belong to anyone.

Hiring managers are starting to recognize the pattern, and they’re using it as a filter.

The candidates being chosen are using these tools differently. Not to do the work for them, but to see their own work more clearly.

Every tool we’re covering today can write your cover letter, draft your interview answers, compose your follow-ups. But you shouldn’t let them, at least not the final version.

These tools work best the way a good colleague works best. The one who reads your draft and says: “I don’t know what this means, and I’ve known you for ten years.” The one who listens to your answer and says: “You lost me after the first sentence.” Use them that way. Let them push you. Then you write it (or rewrite it) yourself. In your voice. With your stories.

That’s what gets you hired. You. Your stories, your voice.

Your AI Job Coach

You sit down to write a cover letter, and you write something like: “Led multi-stakeholder coordination across five country offices.” It feels specific. You can picture it all…the room, the calls, the forty-message email chain before anyone agreed on a workplan.

To a hiring manager who’s never worked in your world, it’s just more noise.

After fifteen or twenty years inside one system, it’s easy to lose the ability to see your own experience the way others do. Not because you’re not smart or perceptive, it’s just because you’ve been living it a little too long. The language you developed to describe your experience was for your previous world. It just doesn’t translate well.

Claude Projects (free tier available, but honestly worth the investment to pay for) is where that translation happens. If you set up a project last week with your CV and career documents, upload the job description you’re considering. Then ask: “Based on my documents, what are the three strongest points of alignment between my experience and this role? What’s the biggest gap, and how should I address it?”

What comes back might surprise you. The strengths it highlights won’t always be the ones you’d have led with. The gaps might not be what you expected. That’s the point, it’s showing you how your experience will be received and where to make the changes.

Then write the final version of your cover letter. Yourself. When you have a draft, paste it back into the LLM and ask: “Flag anything that sounds generic, vague, or like it could describe any candidate. Also flag anything that sounds AI-generated.”

AI is good at catching its own patterns. And that says everything but means nothing tone? It’s also what your writing defaults to at midnight when you’re exhausted and just want the application done. (We’ve all submitted something at that hour and regretted it by morning.) Catching that before you send it is a small thing that can change everyhting.

One rule: never ask it to “improve” or “rewrite” your text. What comes back sounds like every other application in the pile. Ask for feedback. And then you make the decision about what to change. The difference matters more than you think.

You’re better at interviews than you realize. Just not these interviews.

You’re probably excellent at interviews at the UN or whatever industry you worked in. Competency-based questions, structured panels, scoring matrices, you knew the format, and you prepared for it. That’s a real skill.

It also doesn’t transfer the way you’d expect.

A private sector hiring manager wants to know two things in about thirty minutes: can you do the job, and would they want to work with you? It’s less structured. More conversational. There’s no initial matrix, no panel taking notes. And the openness that sounds easier is exactly what makes it harder, because you’re used to knowing the rules, and here the rules change with every person you speak with.

ChatGPT Advanced Voice Mode closes this gap faster than almost anything else available. You have a real spoken conversation, natural voice, real-time responses. The free tier is limited; the paid plan is where it becomes genuinely useful.

Tell it the role, the company, the format you’re expecting. Then: “Ask me interview questions one at a time. After each answer, give me specific feedback on what was strong and what I should improve. Be direct, even if it’s uncomfortable.”

Then answer out loud. Don’t type it. Don’t rehearse it in your head sitting on the sofa. Do it out loud, the way you’ll have to when it actually counts.

Yes, sitting in your kitchen talking to your laptop may feel strange. (It will, for about ninety seconds. Then you forget you’re not talking to a person, and something useful starts happening.) You hear yourself using jargon that means nothing outside your sector. You notice your answer ran four minutes when the question needed two sentences. You catch the moment you went abstract when what they wanted was a specific story about the last time you actually solved something.

Then ask it to switch styles. A casual screen with HR feels nothing like a technical conversation with a department head who wants to see how you think. Practice both. Practice until you’re comfortable with the format. When you’re finally across from a real person, you want the nerves to be about the stakes, not the lack of familiarity.

Free alternatives: Microsoft Copilot Voice is good. Gemini Live also works well. There are also a number of paid sites.

The financial conversation nobody taught us to have

In the UN, you had a grade and a step. Post adjustment, education grant, tax exemption. There was nothing to negotiate. The number was the number. You might not have loved it, but you never had to ask for it.

Outside, everything is different. The same job title pays dramatically different depending on the company, the city, the industry, and how the conversation goes. People with extraordinary experience and real skills accept offers well below what the role is worth. Not because they don’t deserve more. Because they don’t have data, they don’t want to seem difficult, and they’ve simply never had to do this before.

If that sounds like it might be you, it’s almost all of us.

Deep Research Models (Perplexity, Gemini, ChatGPT, or Claude) means you walk in with numbers instead of guesswork. Try this:

AI Prompt

Research average salaries for [target role] at [type of organization] in [location]. Account for organization size, years of experience, and sector. Include base salary, typical bonus structure, and benefits context. Present as a table comparing entry, mid, and senior levels.

Run it for every role you’re seriously considering. Compare across tools, they pull different results, and the differences are useful. You’re building a range, so that when someone names a figure, you know whether it’s fair or whether you’re leaving something on the table.

Then practice. Go back to voice mode: “I’ve received an offer for [role] at [salary]. Based on my research, I believe the range is [X to Y]. Play the hiring manager. Push back so I can practice responding.”

If you’ve never negotiated your salary before, it can be overwhelming. And like everything else we’re working through, it gets less frightening with repetition. By the third round or so, something changes. You stop apologizing for asking. You start stating what you’re worth like it’s a fact.

Because it is.

None of these tools do the hard part. They won’t write your story, build your network, or sit in the interview chair for you.

But they change how we look at things. The research that once felt impossible becomes a report in two hours. The interview format that used to bother you becomes something you’ve already done, quietly, in private, before anyone was watching.

That’s a lot. Particularly when the weeks are starting to blur.

Better together,

Andrea

P.S. If you know someone in the middle of all this who could use a hand, send them the newsletter. When three people subscribe through your referral link, I’ll send you my digital book — The Ultimate Job Search Resource List — with 70+ tools, websites, and platforms for every stage of the search. Your referral link is below.

No announcement. No goodbye. I just stopped writing On Leading Well — and I’ve been thinking about how to explain that ever since.

Here’s my honest attempt.

A year or so ago, something shifted in many of the conversations I was having. The professionals I work with — smart, experienced people who’d spent their careers building something real — weren’t asking the questions I’d started this newsletter to answer.

They weren’t asking how to lead better.

They were asking something harder: what do I do now, when the career I built doesn’t exist the way it used to?

Most of that thinking moved into my other newsletter, Human + AI Edge, where I've spent the past year writing about how experienced professionals stay relevant when everything shifts. That work is ongoing.

I kept hearing versions of the same story.

Someone who’d spent 10 or 15 years inside international systems — doing genuinely important work, leading teams, managing complexity that most people couldn’t fathom. And then, restructuring. Funding cuts.

The whole architecture, suddenly rearranged or dismantled.

These weren’t people who’d failed. They were people the system had failed.

And the career advice available to them? Mostly useless.

Not because it was wrong, but because it was built for a completely different situation.

“Update your LinkedIn” is good advice for someone who just left a marketing job at a tech company.

It is not a strategy for someone whose professional identity was forged inside institutions that the outside world doesn’t fully understand and whose résumé reads like a foreign language to most private sector hiring managers.

A Familiar Story

I spent over a decade in the UN system before circumstances I hadn’t planned for — caregiving, health, the things that don’t show up in any career books — forced me to rethink life.

When I tried to figure out what came next, I discovered that the guide I needed didn’t exist.

So I made one, messily, over several years, through caregiving, getting hit by a car, COVID and an AI wave that changed what “relevant” even means.

The Career Reset is a newsletter for experienced professionals — especially those navigating disruption in the international development world — who are trying to figure out what’s next.

Not recycled frameworks.

Not LinkedIn hustle culture.

Just honest, practical thinking about how to move forward when the system stops working the way it was supposed to.

On Leading Well isn’t completely disappearing. But I won’t be writing it anymore — and I’d rather be honest with you about that than let it sit there quietly going stale.

If you’ve been here for a while: thank you. It truly appreciate your support.

If what I’m describing now connects to where you are, or where someone you know is; then I hope you’ll subscribe.

→ Subscribe to The Career Reset

— Andrea J. Miller

Hi, I’m Andrea J. Miller, and welcome to On Leading Well.

In a world that’s exponentially changing, leadership isn’t about doing more.
It’s about choosing what matters, thinking clearly, and moving forward with intention.

If you want to lead with clarity and resilience in an AI-driven world, you’re in the right place.

Let’s begin.

____

You’re Not Burnt Out. You’re Overloaded. Here’s the Fix.

Most leaders I work with aren’t struggling because they lack clarity.
They’re struggling because they have too many priorities and no space to think clearly about any of them.

They start the day with a plan.
They end it with 19 browser tabs open, half-finished work, and the very real sense that they’re falling behind.

They’re productive.
But they’re not progressing.

Sound familiar?

You’re not broken.
You’re just stuck in a system that rewards reactivity over strategy, and burns out your most valuable asset in the process: your ability to focus.

The Real Problem: You're Running Out of Executive Capacity

Here’s what’s actually happening.

Your prefrontal cortex - the brain’s executive function -is where true productivity lives.
It’s responsible for prioritization, long-term thinking, problem solving, and emotional regulation.

But it’s limited. And modern work floods it early with:

• Slack pings

• Constant interruptions

• Context switching

• Decision fatigue

• Fire drills disguised as meetings

By the time you need to think clearly about what matters most, you’re fried.

This isn’t a time management problem.
It’s a cognitive load problem.

The Fix: Two Lightweight Systems That Create Real Relief

I didn’t fix this by blowing up my calendar.
I didn’t buy a new productivity app.

I built two simple, high-trust systems:

1. One that clears my head before the chaos hits

2. One that helps me act on what matter, even when I feel overloaded

Combined, they take 15 minutes.
They’ve helped me stay strategic on days I would’ve otherwise drowned in noise.

System 1: The Morning Reset

This is a 10-minute practice to reset your brain and restore your ability to think clearly before you start solving everyone else’s problems.

It’s not complicated.
No need to over-optimize it.
Just pick one and stick with it.

Examples:

• Box breathing (4-4-4-4 count)

• Breath focus

• Body scan

• Mindfulness or transcendental meditation

• Silent sitting with a timer

The science behind it is clear:
Your brain can’t function strategically without rest between demands.
This gives it that rest, deliberately, before the day takes over.

Here’s what to expect:

• Week 1: You’ll feel fidgety. Normal.

• Week 2: You’ll notice less internal noise.

• Week 3: Decision-making feels faster, cleaner.

• Week 4: Others start asking what changed.

The signal that it’s working?
You can hold two competing problems in your head without spiraling.

System 2: The Strategic Task Prompt

This might be the most deceptively powerful tool I use.

The problem isn’t that you don’t know what to do.
The problem is that you know too much.

When you finally get a quiet block of time, you're overloaded with options.

You scan your list.
You pause.
You default to urgency.
And the work that truly matters gets pushed again.

The fix:
A short, daily AI prompt that helps surface the next best move.

Here's how it works:

Each morning, you prompt ChatGPT (or another chatbot) with a structured request for a 1–2 hour strategic task aligned to your current priorities.

You’ll get one clear, focused suggestion.
You’ll either think:
“Yes, that’s it.”
Or:
“No, but now I know what it is.”

Either way, you’re moving in the right direction.

Template Prompt:

“Each morning at [TIME], send me one specific, strategic action I can complete in 1–2 hours to [YOUR PRIMARY GOAL] as a [YOUR ROLE/SITUATION].
Focus on tasks that:
– [Strategic Outcome 1]
– [Strategic Outcome 2]
– [Strategic Outcome 3]
– Can be done today.
Make it practical, clear, and confidence-boosting.”

Use Cases:

🧭 Job Seeker:
“Each morning at 9am, give me one task I can complete to land a Head of Ops role in healthcare. Focus on tasks that:
– Build visibility with hiring managers
– Show strategic thinking
– Expand my network”

🧭 Freelancer:
“Each morning at 7am, give me one task to grow my writing business. Focus on tasks that:
– Build credibility
– Generate leads
– Improve client systems”

🧭 Team Leader in Transition:
“Each morning at 8am, give me one action to lead my team through restructuring. Focus on tasks that:
– Build trust
– Clarify shifting priorities
– Sustain team momentum”

Note: I’ve been working with ChatGPT, and it knows me (a little scary, but true), so you’ll need to provide it with sufficient context about you and your current workload for this to be truly effective.

Why These Systems Work

Because they’re designed for reality, not fantasy.

• They don’t assume a perfect morning

• They don’t require monk-like focus

• They don’t need you to overhaul your life

They work because they:

• Protect your brain’s most strategic time

• Provide clarity with frictionless action

• Create movement, even when you feel overwhelmed

And together, they create the mental scaffolding that the modern workplace requires.

The Setup (15 minutes, total)

Step 1: Choose your reset
Pick one method. Block 10 minutes. Do it before Slack. Repeat for 5 days.

Step 2: Customize your prompt

• Choose your main goal

• Define three strategic outcomes

• Drop it into the template

• Ask ChatGPT to turn it into a task to run it daily (you can do this in the o3 and o4 mini models). Commit to doing the task before noon.

You don’t need to optimize. You just need to start.

Final Thought: Your Brain Is Your Greatest Asset. Protect It.

You don’t need a life overhaul.
You need less friction between your focus and your actions.

These two systems return your executive capacity to you.
So you can stop reacting and start leading with intention again.

If this helped, share it with a colleague navigating similar challenges.
And if you want more clarity-driven, human-first tools to lead in the AI era:
Subscribe to On Leading Well.
Or follow me here for weekly strategies to move forward, calmly, decisively, and on purpose.

You’re expected to make faster decisions with fewer inputs.

Manage risks no one else sees.

And hold a space for everyone else’s uncertainty while simultaneously having to manage your own.

But here’s what’s rarely talked about…
Even the best leaders find it difficult to think clearly in isolation.

And yet, that’s exactly how many of us make our biggest calls: alone, under pressure, without enough time or perspective.

But for some leaders, that’s quietly starting to change with the help of AI, if they permit themselves to use it differently.

Not as a task tool.
Not to generate content or create slide decks.
But as a thought partner.

You don’t need more advice. You need a place and the space to think.

AI can’t lead for you. It won’t replace your judgment.
But when used well, it can become an unbiased partner for complex, nuanced decisions.

Not the tactical ones.
And also not, “What should I name this program?” or “How do I word this email?”

Use it for the meaningful ones. The ones that ask:

• “Do we optimize for short-term revenue or long-term trust?”

• “Do we scale what’s working or explore what’s next?”

• “Do I challenge this stakeholder or protect the relationship?”

These are the kinds of decisions that shape teams, cultures, and outcomes.
They deserve more than a late-night, often agonized gut check, even when there’s no one else around to ask.

The best thinking doesn’t come from a blank page. It comes from tension.

Here’s what most people get wrong: they use AI like old tech.
Put in a prompt, get a response. Move on.

But leadership isn’t only about answers.
It’s about asking better questions, exploring the edges, and thinking through the tradeoffs carefully.

That’s one of the ways I use AI.
I don’t ask it to tell me what to do.
I ask it to argue with me, to stress-test my logic, to show me what I might be missing.

I’ll say:

• “Be honest with me.”

• “Assume I’m wrong. Why?”

• “What are the risks if this fails publicly?”

• “What would my critics say in a boardroom or at the dinner table I’m not at (it’s not just for work :)? ”

It responds. I push back. It improves. I adapt.
Not (necessarily) because it’s smarter than me, but because it helps me see more clearly.

This is about leadership improvement. Mental clarity. Decision quality.

If you’ve ever wanted a sounding board at 7 am before a tough call,
If you’ve ever walked into a meeting knowing your strategy had weak spots,
If you’ve ever worried about a decision with no one to vet it with…

This is your chance to try something different.

Not because it’s trendy.
But because YOUR leadership is too important to do in a vacuum.

Your turn: Try this with one decision this week

Pick something real.
Not urgent, but important.

Block 20 minutes.
Lay out the stakes, your current thinking, and the real tension points.

Then ask AI to challenge you. Not solve it, but challenge it.

At the very least, you’ll walk away thinking more clearly.
At best, you’ll change your mind or deepen your conviction.

Either way, you’ll decide better.
And that’s never been more important for leaders.

If this helped clarify something for you, consider sharing it.

Or send it to someone who’s managing the weight of difficult decisions alone.

For more practical insights on clarity, conviction, and leading well, subscribe to On Leading Well or follow me on LinkedIn for weekly ideas on human-first leadership in the age of AI.

Let’s dive in.

Why Playing It Safe Is the Riskiest Move in 2025

If you’re leading a team in 2025, you’re already seeing it:

The era of safe leadership is over. What’s next demands something more.

AI is reshaping how work gets done.
Increasing economic pressures are impacting decisions.
Data security risks are multiplying.
So, "business as usual" is no longer a possiblity.

Leadership today demands something different:
The courage to innovate.

The ability to adapt.

And the discipline to move fast and take action.

Innovation isn’t the old workshop filled with sticky notes.
Nor is it a hackathon or a trendy new app.
It’s annoying, uncomfortable work.
It’s about asking your team and yourself to do the hard, unfamiliar stuff when guarantees are nowhere in sight.

That’s where many leaders hesitate.
They slow down.
They wait for certainty.
They double down on old habits and fall behind.

If you want your team to adapt, thrive, and innovate, you’ll need to think and lead differently.

Here’s how.

The New Leadership Playbook

1. Normalize Discomfort

Innovation isn’t a talent gap, it’s a trust gap. Teams take bold steps when leaders make it safe to stretch.

If your team feels too safe, they’re not stretching. They’re likely stalling.

Action Step:

• In your next meeting, ask:
  "What’s one move that feels slightly uncomfortable, but could meaningfully improve our results?"

• Write down the answers.

• Choose one idea. Test it in the next 30 days.

Pro Tip:
Here’s a leadership reminder:

"If it feels too comfortable, it’s probably not ambitious enough."

Leader's Difference:
Create a space where experimentation is expected and where nerve isn’t punished, even if the results aren’t perfect.

2. Lower the Risk

When bold ideas feel overwhelming, it’s not a creativity problem, it’s a risk management problem.

Your job:
Make big moves feel small enough to act on.

Action Step:

• Break bold ideas into mini experiments.

• Pilot a new approach with one department or one client.

• Limit the timeframe (e.g., 30 days).

• Measure one clear outcome.

Pro Tip:
Celebrate experiments, not just results. Reinforce that smart experiments are valued.

3. Turn Failure Into Possibiltiy

Failure is inevitable.
The only choice is whether you use it or waste it.

Action Step:
After every project or pilot, run a simple Post-mortem:

• What worked?

• What surprised us?

• What's one thing we'll improve next time?

Keep it short. Make it honest.

Pro Tip:
Model it yourself.
Share one recent failure you’ve learned from.
When leaders normalize learning from mistakes, teams follow.

Leader's Reminder:
Failure is only a problem when it's hidden. Make it visible and most of all make it useful.

4. Ask Bolder Questions

Top-down leadership is outdated.
Modern teams don’t need more orders.
They need better prompts.

Action Step:
Start replacing commands with strategic curiosity:

• "If we had to double impact without doubling resources, what would we do?"

• "What’s one industry rule we could break to serve our clients better?"

• "Where are we playing too safe right now, and what’s the cost?"

Pro Tip:
Create a shared file where you list bold questions for when the energy stalls.

Leader's Reminder:
Constraints can actually help. The best ideas come from better questions, not bigger budgets.

5. Celebrate Risks (Not Just Outcomes)

If you only reward wins, you teach your team to avoid risk, which can be dangerous during a time of massive disruption.

And when you reward bold, smart efforts, you build the skills necessary to drive momentum…even in the toughest times.

Action Step:
Launch a "Innovation of the Month" recognition:

• Criteria: Thoughtful risk-taking, experimentation, or creative problem-solving.

• Rewards: Select rewards that match the person. Find out what genuinely motivates each individual, not what you assume matters to them.

Leader's Reminder:
Innovation grows faster when it’s part of the culture, not the exception.

Why This Matters More Than Ever

Leading well in 2025 and beyond will demand more from all of us:

• More courage in how we act.

• More attention to how we protect data, integrity, and trust.

• More resilience when outcomes aren't guaranteed.

When you lead for innovation, you create three powerful advantages:

• Teams build smarter strategies, experiment earlier, and stay focused on what’s next, not what’s familiar.

• Organizations adapt faster than competitors stuck in fear mode.

Companies that lead with smart risk-taking outperform those stuck in fear and develop greater resilience during economic and AI disruption.

This Week

1. Pick an area where you think you’ve been leading too cautiously.

2. Ask your team one bold question that challenges the status quo.

3. Design one small, safe experiment to stretch your edge.

And then, assess.

The future belongs to leaders who can move fast, protect well, and inspire boldness.

Make sure you're one of them.

Let's lead well. Together.
—Andrea

___

When Uncertainty Is Your Job, EQ Is Your Advantage

The economic pressure is real.
The layoffs are real.
The AI shift is not hypothetical. It’s happening. Right now.

People are scared—for good reason. And if you’re in a leadership role, you feel it too. You’re responsible for results. You’re responsible for people. You’re expected to project confidence when you don’t have certainty.

This is the part of leadership no one wants to talk about:
What it means to lead when you don’t know what’s coming.

Why This Hits Leaders So Hard

Uncertainty doesn’t just affect operations. It affects cognition and emotion. Research shows our brains interpret unpredictability as a threat. That triggers anxiety, reduces strategic thinking, and narrows focus.

In leadership, that’s dangerous.

• You stop making bold decisions

• You default to old, familiar habits

• You communicate less, or not at all

• Your team senses it and loses trust

You can’t afford to lead from that state. Which is where emotional intelligence (EQ) comes in.

EQ in Uncertain Times = Self-Awareness + Self-Regulation + Steady Communication

This isn’t soft stuff. It’s the foundation.

Emotions are contagious, if you can’t regulate your internal state, you’ll transfer it to everyone around you.

• Teams don’t just react to your words. They react to your nervous system.

• If you’re anxious, they’re anxious.

• If you’re scattered, they’re unfocused.

• If you’re silent, they assume the worst.

The leaders who stand out right now aren’t the ones with perfect plans.
They’re the ones who know how to stay clear and act when the path isn’t obvious.

Five Actions That Actually Help

This is a practical leadership playbook for navigating uncertainty. Keep it close. Use it weekly.

1. Stabilize Yourself First

• Block 15 minutes daily to assess and control your emotional state.

• Use whatever works: journaling, walking, structured thinking, breathwork.

• Ask: What’s true right now? What’s noise?

• Don’t react out of fear. Respond with clarity.

If you can’t lead yourself, you can’t lead anyone else.

2. Say What’s Real

People don’t need spin. They need leaders who tell the truth and create direction.

Try this phrase:
“Here’s what we know. Here’s what we’re watching. Here’s what we’re doing next.”

Don’t promise certainty. Model calm action.

3. Redefine Your Plan in Shorter Cycles

• Reduce your planning window to 2–4 weeks.

• Set one clear outcome and one clear experiment.

• De-risk through fast feedback. Learn as you go.

Action beats perfection.

4. Start Using AI—Even If You’re Not Sure How

The worst response to AI is to wait. Here’s a quick way to start:

WEEK 1: Learn

• Ask ChatGPT: What are 5 AI use cases in my role or industry?

• Watch a 10-minute YouTube explainer on generative AI.

• Follow me and others who write about AI on LinkedIn

WEEK 2: Try One Use Case

• Summarize a report. Draft a policy. Brainstorm with AI.

• Document how much time it saved—or didn’t.

WEEK 3: Share It

• Start a weekly 15-minute team demo. Low stakes, no slides.

AI is not a department. It’s a leadership skill.
You need to show your team what experimenting looks like.

5. Lead Emotionally, Not Just Operationally

• Check in with your team on how they’re actually doing.

• Make space for questions, doubt, and reflection.

• Reinforce what you stand for, not just what you do.

Leadership right now isn’t about controlling outcomes.
It’s about guiding humans through complexity—with clarity and action.

Final Thought

I don’t believe in “waiting for things to settle.” That’s not how this works anymore.

I’ve lived through real personal uncertainty—deaths, injury, surgeries, and the pressure of keeping a business alive through it all. And I’ve learned this:

The right time to act is not after things get clear.
It’s because things are unclear that action matters.

If you’re a leader, this is your moment to decide how you want to show up.

And if you want weekly (sometimes more often) AI tips and tools to help you do that, I write about this in my LinkedIn newsletter:

👉 Future Proof Your Career

Smart, practical, actionable tools for a world that won’t slow down.

Let’s lead better. Together.

—Andrea

___

Today, we’ll talk about The Joy Effect

Also this week:

• 10 Things They Don't Tell You About Your First Job - Thrilled to share that I was quoted in this US News & World Report article.

• How to Optimize Your Workout to Boost Your Mood

• LinkedIn Live: Transform Your Leadership: Five Essential Mindsets to Adopt Now

• Book a Free Discovery Call

• The Lighter Side of Joy

___

In our rush for productivity and innovation, we've lost a critical component, joy. 

It's rarely on our KPIs, but its impact can’t be ignored.

The other day, I was watching Kamala Harris speak. What caught my attention wasn't her words, but her energy.

She seemed genuinely happy to be there, and it showed.

More importantly, people responded to that joy - you could see it in their faces and reactions. 

It got me thinking: What if we brought that kind of positive energy to our workplaces? What if joy wasn't just an occasional nice side effect of success, but actually helped drive it? 

Here's the thing, while business experts talk endlessly about grit and hustle, joy often gets brushed aside. I think that's a mistake.

(Courtesy of thebratgenerator.com)

Joy isn't about fake smiles or …. It's a real force: 

1. It boosts collaboration, opening up communication and creativity.

2. It increases engagement, leading to better productivity.

3. It helps build resilience, protecting against burnout.

And here's what's really interesting, emotions are contagious. 

When leaders show genuine joy, it can spread through the whole organization. These aren't just words - there's solid research backing it up. 

Years ago, the famed father of positive psychology and former president of the APA, Martin Seligman studied optimistic salespeople. What he found was profound. 

This optimistic group outperformed their pessimistic colleagues by 37%. By any standard that's a pretty big deal.

But we need to take a more holistic view. Joy isn't just about work - it's about life.

The pandemic really drove this home. 

We're not as compartmentalized as we or at least the companies we work for might like to think. Our joy (or lack of it) seeps into everything we do.

So how do we cultivate more organizational joy? Here are some ideas I've seen work:

- Set up a 'Win Wall': Celebrate victories, big and small.

- Create 'Connection Zones': Spaces where people can interact casually and positively.

- Try 'Joy Hours': Give folks time to do things they find fulfilling.

- Run 'Growth Festivals': Turn learning into a celebration.

On a personal level, you could:

- Keep a joy log: Write down happy moments each day.

- Practice gratitude: Start your day by noting three good things (another from Dr Seligman's research).

- Have 'Skill Dates': Learn something new just for fun.

- Do a kindness challenge: One generous act daily. 

This isn't just feel-good fluff. I've lived it. During a rough five-year stretch with health issues and losing my parents, hope became my lifeline and joy my goal. It wasn't about faking happiness. It was about noticing and appreciating the good moments, even in tough times.

In today's work world, joy isn't a luxury. It's a necessity. It turns good teams into great ones. It makes draining jobs more bearable, even inspiring. 

The numbers back this up. Studies show happy workers are up to 13% more productive. That's real ROI.

But it goes beyond work. 

Joy in daily life boosts our health, strengthens our immune system, and improves our overall well-being. Small joyful moments create a positive feedback loop, making us more resilient. 

So here's my challenge to you, begin your own joy revolution. At work. In your life. 

Be the spark that ignites a culture of optimism and achievement. 

Your move. What's one step you'll take today to amp up the joy in your life? 

Think about it. Try something. Remember, it's not about being perfect. It's about making progress, one joyful moment at a time. 

Let's build a world where joy and success go hand in hand. It's not just possible - it's essential.

___

A Few Interesting Reads:

10 Things They Don't Tell You About Your First Job

What new grads need to know about their debut entry-level position.

How to Optimize Your Workout to Boost Your Mood

Physical activity can brighten your outlook and calm your nerves — if you do it strategically.

___

The Lighter Side of Joy

___

That’s it for this week. Thank you for being a subscriber!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, please forward it to a friend (or 5 :) or someone you feel would benefit from reading it!

And, if you have feedback or suggestions for subjects to cover, please message me…it, like its author, is a work in progress.

Andrea J. Miller

+1 (646) 556-5401 (Whatsapp)

Hi! I'm Andrea J. Miller and this is my “On Leading Well” Newsletter. I send this to people in my networks, people I’ve met recently, and friends I want to keep in touch with. You can unsubscribe (AT THE VERY BOTTOM OF THE EMAIL) anytime, I won’t be offended.

___

Today, we’ll talk about How to Beat Procrastination in the Age of AI

Also this week:

• Optimism Wards off Procrastination

• One Potential Key to Knicks’ Season: Friendship

• Miami tech company launches new AI health tool

• LinkedIn Live: AI-Era Branding: Unlocking Your Professional Potential

• Book a Free Discovery Call

• The Lighter Side of (My) Procrastination

___

Beating Procrastination in the AI Age: A Human-Centric Approach

It's 11 PM, and you're staring at your screen, surrounded by productivity apps, yet that important project still remains untouched. 

Sound familiar?

In our AI-enhanced world, why do we still grapple with procrastination? 

Let's unpack this challenge and discover how to combine our innate drive with smart tech to beat procrastination once and for all.

The Procrastination Puzzle in the Digital Era

Why? Despite our technological advancements we still struggle with getting things done, the core reasons for procrastination remain deeply human:

1. Information Overload: With endless options at our fingertips, we often find ourselves paralyzed by choices.

2. Perfectionism: The desire and now promise of perfection with AI can make us hesitant to produce "merely human" work.

3. Digital Distractions: Each notification is a siren song, pulling us away from our tasks.

4. Fear of Failure: The age-old worry that our efforts might not measure up can haunt us, perhaps even more in the age of AI.

Strategies to Beat Procrastination: Blending Human Wisdom with AI Support

Let's walk through a day to see how you can blend traditional techniques with judicious use of technology:

 1. Morning: Enhancing Self-Awareness

You start your day with a brief journaling session, noting your mood and energy levels. You can use a simple AI-powered mood-tracking app to spot patterns over time, gaining insights into when you're most prone to procrastination.

2. Mid-Morning: Optimizing the Environment

As you settle into work, you activate a distraction-free mode on your device. Smart home integration adjusts lighting and temperature for optimal focus. The key is creating an environment that nudges you towards productivity.

3. Afternoon: Mastering Task Management

Facing a daunting project, you break it down into smaller tasks. For the trickier parts, you use an AI project management tool to suggest optimal task sequences. However, YOU make the final decisions, ensuring they remain in control. 

4. Evening: Building Accountability

As the day winds down, you check in with your accountability partner - a mix of AI-moderated check-ins for consistency, and weekly human video calls for that irreplaceable personal connection. 

A Personal Journey: From Procrastination to Consistent Creation

For years, I wanted to do videos for my business but always found reasons to delay. The turning point came when I realized I was waiting for the perfect conditions that would never arrive and this needed to happen yesterday. 

Here's how I finally overcame my content creation procrastination:

1. I started small, recording short, scripted videos just for me.

2. I set a realistic schedule of one video per week, not daily as I'd ambitiously (and unrealistically) planned before.

3. I found a supportive community of creators who provided encouragement and constructive feedback.

4. When writer's block struck, I used an AI writing assistant to generate ideas, but always ensured the final content was authentically mine.

5. Most importantly, I celebrated each video created, regardless of views or perceived quality.

The result? A consistent content creation habit that supports my vision for my professional life.

Begin by starting small to manage the overwhelm.

Balancing Technology and Human Effort

In our continual quest to beat procrastination, it's important to see technology as a supportive tool, not a crutch. Here's how:

• Use AI for initial brainstorming or editing, but trust your unique voice for the final product.

• Implement regular "tech-free" focus sessions to build your concentration muscles.

• Set strict time limits for AI tool usage to prevent falling down technological rabbit holes.

Remember, while AI can provide valuable support, true productivity stems from your intentions, efforts, and habits. 

Your Turn: Reflect, Act, and Connect

Think about a task you've been putting off. What's really holding you back? 

How might a blend of time-tested techniques and thoughtful use of technology help you tackle it?

Now, let's turn these insights into action: 

1. Join me this week for my LinkedIn Live: "Build Your Global Leadership Edge: Cultural Intelligence for Team Success." We'll explore the impact of culture on your and your team’s success. 

2. Follow me on LinkedIn to ensure you don't miss my future productivity-focused LinkedIn Lives. I'll be sharing more strategies to help you stay on top of your game in our AI-enhanced world. 

3. DM me. I'm here to help you be at your productive best, offering personalized insights to overcome your specific hurdles. 

In this AI-enhanced world, conquering procrastination isn't about finding a tech silver bullet. 

It's about thoughtfully combining tested productivity principles with innovative tools, always keeping your human goals, abilities, and values at the center.

Your journey to balanced, tech-savvy productivity starts now.

What will you get done today?

___

A Few Interesting Reads:

Optimism Wards off Procrastination

A new study found that people who anticipate lower stress in the future are less prone to severe procrastination.

One Potential Key to Knicks’ Season: Friendship

Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo have been buddies since college, a situation that those who study the workplace say can foster success.

Miami tech company launches new AI health tool

I recently shared some insights into DecodyGPT’s new precision health technology.

___

The Lighter Side of (My) Procrastination

This has nothing to do with procrastination, it just made me laugh…if you’ve ever taken the train when it’s “showtime,” you’ll understand my “procrastination” and need to include this.

___

That’s it for this week. Thank you for being a subscriber!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, please forward it to a friend (or 5 :) or someone you feel would benefit from reading it!

And, if you have feedback or suggestions for subjects to cover, please message me…it, like it’s author, is a work in progress.

Andrea J. Miller

+1 (646) 556-5401 (Whatsapp)

Hi! I'm Andrea J. Miller and this is my “On Leading Well” Newsletter. I send this to people in my networks, people I’ve met recently, and friends I want to keep in touch with. You can unsubscribe (AT THE VERY BOTTOM OF THE EMAIL) anytime, I won’t be offended.

___

Today, we’ll talk about Why Energy Management is the Secret to Greater Productivity

Also this week:

• If You Want to Get Stronger, Routine Is the Enemy

• How Much Happiness Can Your Salary Buy? Researchers Can’t Agree

• LinkedIn Live: The Adaptability Advantage: Leading Successful Teams in a Changing World

• Book a Free Discovery Call

• The Lighter Side of Energy Management

___

The Productivity Breakthrough: How High Achievers Fuel Sustainable Energy for Peak Performance

In the relentless pursuit of success, high achievers often sacrifice their most valuable asset: their energy.

The endless to-do lists, caffeine binges, and burnout cycles are a recipe for disaster.

But what if I told you there's a better way? A way to achieve peak performance without sacrificing your well-being?

Welcome to the world of energy management, where peak performance meets lasting fulfillment.

It's not about doing more; it's about being more – more focused, more creative, more resilient, and ultimately, more successful.

Understanding Your Energy Rhythms: Work with Your Body, Not Against It

Imagine that you wake up feeling great, ready to conquer the world. Your to-do list is long, but you're confident. Then, by mid-afternoon, you're dragging. Sound familiar?

That's your body's ultradian rhythms talking – natural cycles dictating your energy levels throughout the day.

For me, mornings are sacred. After my morning coffee and exercise, it's go-time. The hardest tasks first. This isn't just productivity advice—it's a strategic.

By identifying your peak times, you can align your most demanding tasks with these high-energy periods.

The Four Pillars of Peak Energy: More Than Just Physical Stamina

Energy isn't just physical. It's emotional, mental, and spiritual too. Each type needs attention to sustain peak performance.

• Physical Energy: The foundation. Your body is a brilliant machine. Exercise, nutrition, and sleep aren't optional for high achievers. They're non-negotiable.

• Emotional Energy: Your fuel tank. Empty? You're going nowhere fast. Practices like mindfulness, stress management, and cultivating positive relationships keep you emotionally grounded and resilient.

• Mental Energy: The engine. High octane is required for high performance. Deep work, focused bursts, and strategic breaks are key to keeping your mind sharp and effective.

• Spiritual Energy: Your GPS. Lost your way? No amount of gas will get you there. Humans need to connect to purpose, values, and passions to fuel your drive and motivation.

Optimize Your Energy: The High-Achiever's Toolkit

Let's get strategic. Here's how I leverage each energy type:

• Physical: Daily movement is critical. I fuel my body with clean, whole foods (most of the time :) and work to get 7+ hours of sleep. I deal with pain issues, so not always possible and I see and feel the difference). This makes midday naps are my secret weapon for a quick recharge.

• Emotional: Mindfulness and stress management are my daily rituals. I cultivate a positive mindset and try to surround myself with supportive people.

• Mental: I schedule deep work sessions during my peak focus times and use techniques like the Pomodoro method to maximize productivity.

• Spiritual: I regularly connect with my "why." Engaging in activities that align with my passions and values keeps me energized and motivated.

Environmental Impact: Your Workspace as a Productivity Powerhouse

How you have your workspace matters.

Dim lighting? Change it.

Cluttered desk? Clear it.

An optimized environment is critical for focus and creativity, so pay attention to lighting, temperature, noise levels, and ergonomics.

Slay the Energy Vampires: Protect Your Precious Resource

Energy vampires are real (and scary), and they're after your potential.

Perfectionism, multitasking, and negative influences can drain you without you even noticing.

Protect your energy by setting boundaries, delegating tasks, and practicing self-compassion to

Build Your Energy Blueprint: A Personalized Approach

Consistency is key – for most things.

1. Track Your Energy: For one week, note your energy levels throughout the day. When are you most focused? When do you hit a slump? Use this data to optimize your schedule.

2. Experiment: Try incorporating short walks, meditation, or healthy snacks into your day. Notice how these actions impact your energy.

3. Seek Support: Join me for my upcoming LinkedIn Live, "Energized Leadership," where I'll share more advanced strategies and answer your questions.

The future belongs to those who master their energy, not just their time.

___

A Couple of Interesting Reads:

If You Want to Get Stronger, Routine Is the Enemy

If you're not seeing results from consistent workouts, you might need to increase difficulty by adding weight, reps, duration, or new exercises to truly challenge yourself.

How Much Happiness Can Your Salary Buy? Researchers Can’t Agree

When it comes to income, there is no magic number.

___

The Lighter Side of Energy Management

___

That’s it for this week. Thank you for being a subscriber!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, please forward it to a friend (or 5 :) or someone you feel would benefit from reading it!

And, if you have feedback or suggestions for subjects to cover, please message me…it’s a work in progress.

Andrea J. Miller

+1 (646) 556-5401 (Whatsapp)

___

Thanks for reading On Leading Well! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

Today We’ll Talk About the Why Networking is Being Redefine in the Age of AI & How to Master It

Also this week:

• Book a Free Discovery Call

• Event: The Energized Leader's Edge: How to Inspire & Motivate Successful Teams - Please join me on Thursday, June 13, 2024, 2:00 PM ET

• Heart Rate Synchrony Predicts Smarter Team Decisions

• People who read a lot of fiction tend to have better cognitive skills, study finds

• The Lighter Side of Networking

___

From Contacts to Collaborations: Redefining Networking in the Age of AI

In today's hyper-connected world, the rules of networking have changed.

Gone are the days of simply exchanging business cards at events or sending cold emails to potential contacts.

The true power of networking now lies in creating more meaningful connections that drive innovation, facilitate learning, and create lasting impact.

Quality Over Quantity

Networking is more than a numbers game; it's about developing quality relationships.

Every person you meet is an opportunity to learn, grow, share, and see the world from a different perspective.

In a rapidly changing world, having a diverse network is now essential—not for potential jobs or deals, but for the unique insights and ideas it provides.

They can open our minds to new possibilities and solutions at a time when none of us can afford to get stuck in the way we do things.

Networking on platforms like LinkedIn allows us to learn from others, regardless of where they're based.

Imagine the insights and ideas on a call with a tech entrepreneur in Silicon Valley, a healthcare expert in Geneva, and a social entrepreneur in South America.

Each of these conversations holds a piece of a potential future puzzle that could change your thinking, your life, and perhaps even the world.

Meaningful Engagement on LinkedIn

The problem is that sites like LinkedIn can sometimes feel impersonal...but only if you let them.

At its best, they're a place to engage deeply with others, share your experiences, ask questions, and offer and receive help.

Meaningful discussions can occur when you show genuine interest in the other person’s journey.

Even those virtual events you usually skip are more than just webinars and meetings—they’re opportunities to connect with people who share your passions and goals.

The key to all of this is to be proactive. You can use the opportunity to reach out to the speakers, engage with attendees, and follow up - just as you would in real life.

This is true not only for LinkedIn but also for the growing number of online communities.

Look for the groups that align with your interests and professional goals, where you want to actively contribute to discussions, share your knowledge, and learn from others.

Creating Collaborations, Not Just Connections

The ultimate goal in the new world of networking is to create collaborations, not just connections.

It opens opportunities to work together on projects, share resources, and support each other in ways that can lead to breakthroughs and innovations that benefit everyone.

However, building and maintaining relationships requires consistency, which can be challenging when working with people you've never met.

However, leveraging available technology can make it easier to show how much you value the connection beyond professional gain.

In the new world of networking, connecting with others isn’t brief and transactional—it’s about creating longer-term, more meaningful relationships.

Most importantly, it’s about how we can grow together.

As our world becomes increasingly AI-driven, the ability to connect with others will become a rarer and more valuable skill — making your network your greatest asset.

So, step outside your comfort zone and the way you used to do things and start engaging authentically, and building the kind of connections that truly matter.

It can potentially make a world of difference, and a difference to the world.

Creating Connections That Matter

1.         Prioritize Quality Over Quantity

Focus on building deeper, more meaningful relationships rather than collecting larger numbers of superficial contacts.

2.         Engage Proactively on LinkedIn

Join relevant discussions, comment thoughtfully on posts, and reach out to connect with individuals who share your interests.

3.         Follow Up Consistently

After initial interactions, make a habit of following up with new connections. Check in regularly and continue the conversation.

4.         Show Genuine Interest

Take the time to understand the journeys and experiences of your connections. Ask questions, engage thoughtfully, and offer your support where needed.

5.         Create Opportunities for Collaboration

Look for ways to collaborate on projects, share resources, and support each other’s professional growth.

If you're interested in Future Proofing Your Career and growing a more meaningful network, DM me, and let's talk.

___

* Event *

Please join me on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at 2:00 PM ET for:

The Energized Leader's Edge: How to Inspire & Motivate Successful Teams

___

A Couple of Interesting Reads:

Heart Rate Synchrony Predicts Smarter Team Decisions

A new study suggests that synchronized heart rates contribute to intelligent team decisions, as lower heart rates indicate psychological safety and clear thinking. In contrast, uneven heart rates within a team suggest tension and impaired decision-making.

People who read a lot of fiction tend to have better cognitive skills, study finds

Enjoy your summer reading a rom-com or mystery guilt-free! Reading fiction boosts your verbal skills, empathy, and understanding of others.

___

The Lighter Side of Networking

___

That’s it for this week. Thank you for being a subscriber!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, please forward it to a friend (or 5 :) or someone you feel would benefit from reading it!

And, if you have feedback or suggestions for subjects to cover, please message me…it’s a work in progress.

Andrea@LeadWellCompany.com

___

Thanks for reading On Leading Well! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

Today We’ll Talk About the Impact of AI Moving Too Fast and How to Manage the Chaos

Also this week:

• Book a Free Discovery Call

• Event: Imposter to Impact: Practical Strategies to Build Leadership Confidence - Please join me on Thursday, May 30, 2024, 10:00 AM ET

• Future-Proofing Healthcare: Resilience Strategies for Embracing AI-Driven Transformation

• Gen Z's wobbly path to the career ladder

• At Moderna, OpenAI’s GPTs Are Changing Almost Everything

___

Feeling Overwhelmed?  

Everywhere you look, there’s change. 

New tools. New articles. New things you should be doing.

It’s enough to make your brain feel like it’s going to explode.

I get it.  

I’ve felt it too. The constant influx of information is just too much.

And it's not going to end anytime soon.

Let’s talk about how to manage this chaos and futureproof your career.

The Current AI Landscape

Last week was a rough week.

AI is advancing at a crazy pace.  

Here are just a few of the latest, mind-boggling highlights:

OpenAI’s GPT-4o:  

- Multi-modal capabilities: analyzes images, video, and speech.

- Improved voice activation and emotional expression.

- New desktop app with voice and vision capabilities.

Google’s Gemini:  

- Multi-modal capabilities and vision systems.

- Integration with Google’s ecosystem (email, document creation, Android).

Why This Matters:  

These advancements are not just technical wonders, they are reshaping how we interact with the world and each other. 

As these tools become more integrated into our daily lives, the pressure to keep up and adapt can be intense.

Our brains aren’t built for this.  

Dr, Martin Seligman, the father of positive psychology, and Gabriella Rosen Kellerman in their book "Tomorrowmind," explain how our primitive brains struggle with the rapid pace of modern technological change. 

This leads to stress, anxiety, and information overload. 

The constant need to process new information and adapt to new tools can leave us feeling drained and overwhelmed. 

We’re expected to understand and use these advancements quickly, but our brains are not naturally equipped for this level of continuous, rapid change.

Managing the Human Impact of AI:  

I’ve experienced this firsthand. 

The sheer volume of new tools, articles, and updates can be exhausting. 

Everywhere I look, there's something new to understand, learn, and absorb.

It’s become a relentless cycle that can lead to burnout if we don’t manage it well.

Tips for Managing the Overwhelm When Your Brain is About to Explode

Prioritize and Focus:  

• Identify the key areas of focus in your career and personal life. 

• Use tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize tasks and determine what’s truly important versus what’s urgent but less critical.

Continuous Learning:  

• Lifelong learning and adaptability are essential.

• Stay updated through practical ways like reading one industry-related book per month and enrolling in professional development courses. 

This continuous learning will keep you ahead of the curve and more comfortable with ongoing changes.

Use/Learn Tech Wisely:  

• There’s an overwhelming number of AI tools, which is increasing daily…leverage them in ways that help manage information overload and not add to it.

• For example, AI-powered tools can automate repetitive tasks and organize information, freeing up some space for more strategic thinking.

Mindfulness, Mental Health and Wellbeing:  

If you want to keep up, your physical and mental health are more important now than ever before, so prioritize:

• Wellbeing practices such as mindfulness, meditation, and regular breaks are crucial. 

These practices help maintain mental clarity and reduce stress, allowing you to process information more effectively and stay grounded amidst the chaos.

Networking and Mentorship:  

• Building a supportive network is invaluable for increasing knowledge, growth, and overall wellbeing. 

• Seek out mentors or become one yourself to share and gain insights. 

Engaging with a community can provide emotional support and practical advice, while also helping you navigate the complexities of your career.

Managing AI Overload Day-to-Day

1. Set Clear Goals:  

Establish short-term and long-term goals to maintain focus and direction. 

Having a clear roadmap helps you stay on track and measure your progress.

2. Limit Information Intake:  

Be selective about the sources of information you consume. 

Focus on high-quality, relevant content that adds value to your work and personal growth.

3. Institute a Regular Review:  

Periodically review and adjust your learning and productivity strategies. This ensures you continuously improve and adapt to new challenges and opportunities.

Remember, feeling overwhelmed is completely normal, and you're not alone in this!

It's a challenging time for everyone, but it's something we can manage together.

By implementing these and other strategies, you can keep the chaos in check and find a sense of balance.

___

* Event *

Please join me on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at 10:00 AM ET

Imposter to Impact: Practical Strategies to Build Leadership Confidence

___

A Couple of Interesting Reads:

Future-Proofing Healthcare: Resilience Strategies for Embracing AI-Driven Transformation

This article explores how AI can revolutionize healthcare and how to address some of the obstacles that could get in the way.

At Moderna, OpenAI’s GPTs Are Changing Almost Everything

‘People literally talk about how AI is going to cure diseases someday, and I think this is a very meaningful first step,’ says OpenAI CEO Sam Altman

Gen Z’s Wobbly Career Path

Over one-third of 18 to 24-year-olds reported no wage or salary income in 2022, up from about 22% in 1990, according to a St. Louis Fed report.

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The Lighter Side of Managing Overwhelm

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That’s it for this week. Thank you for being a subscriber!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, please forward it to a friend (or 5 :) or someone you feel would benefit from reading it!

And, if you have feedback or suggestions for subjects to cover, please message me…it’s a work in progress.

Andrea@LeadWellCompany.com

Hi! I'm Andrea J. Miller and this is my “On Leading Well” Newsletter. I send this to people in my networks, people I’ve met recently, and friends I want to keep in touch with. You can unsubscribe (AT THE VERY BOTTOM OF THE EMAIL) anytime, I won’t be offended.

___

Thanks for reading On Leading Well! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

Subscribed

Today, we’ll talk about: The Silent Destroyer of Organizational Potential:

Also this week:

• Book a Free Discovery Call

• Want to Remember More? Make More Mistakes

• Don’t Waste Your ‘Power Hours’ In Meetings

• LinkedIn Live: Future Proof Your Career

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The Silent Destroyer of Organizational Potential: Are You Guilty of Promoting a Genius Culture?

Welcome to the modern workspace a battleground of intellect where only the 'geniuses' survive.

Sounds a bit intense, right?

Let’s take a closer look.

Behind the shiny surface of impressive resumes and brilliant minds is a harsh truth.

Innovation isn't just stalling out, it's suffocating under the weight of impossible expectations.

Let’s face it the once-desired culture of genius isn't just outdated, it's becoming dangerous.

Why? Because tomorrow's workplace doesn't just need smart people. It needs resilient, adaptable, and collaborative thinkers.

People who thrive on challenges and grow from them.

The future of work hinges on adaptability, learning quickly, and pivoting even faster.

Just look at Microsoft, under Satya Nadella's leadership, it transformed its culture from one that prized genius to one that prioritizes growth.

Nadella initiated a shift towards learning and development, which has not only boosted Microsoft’s innovation but also its market success dramatically. 

This transformation demonstrates the power of learning and adaptation over inherent genius.

(Picture by Meta.ai - in case you haven’t tried it yet :)

Here’s why creating a culture of growth over genius is critical:

1. Innovation Demands Experimentation: Genius culture worships the end result. Growth culture celebrates the messy, creative process. The latter is where true innovation lives. 

2. Resilience is Key: When failure is a potential career killer, no one takes risks. When it’s part of learning, everyone grows. Which environment sounds more sustainable?

3. Diversity of Thought: Genius often looks the same. Growth does not. It’s inclusive, valuing different experiences and ideas essential for solving complex problems.

How do we shift from genius to growth? Here’s what you can start doing today: 

1. Encourage Learning, Not Just Winning: Shift your reward structure. Celebrate milestones in learning and improvement, not just the big wins.

2. Normalize Failure: Share your failures – set an example. Make it clear they're expected and essential. If you're leading, be the first to do this.

3. Diversify Success Models: Showcase a variety of paths to success within your organization. Not everyone has to be a prodigy to add value.

4. Invest in Continuous Learning: Provide resources and time for learning. Make it clear it’s not a luxury, it’s a necessity.

The future belongs to those who are prepared to evolve. Genius might open doors, but growth gets you upstairs.

 So, ask yourself, is your organization promoting the growth it needs to thrive in the future of work?

Your move.

What step will you take today to foster a culture of growth?

Want to dive deeper into the future of work and future-proofing your career?

Join my LinkedIn Live on May 14th, 2:00 PM ET.

We'll explore strategies to foster a truly adaptable mindset, empowering you to thrive amidst any change life – or the workplace – throws your way.

Register HERE:

Can't attend? Register anyway to receive the recording.

In the meantime, share your thoughts below or DM me to discuss strategies to transform the way we work.

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A Couple of Interesting Reads:

Want to Remember More? Make More Mistakes

A neuroscientist explains why errors in learning help forge our memories.

Don’t Waste Your ‘Power Hours’ In Meetings

Want to be more productive? Figure out the best time to buckle down or space out.

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The Lighter Side of Genius

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That’s it for this week. Thank you for being a subscriber!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, please forward it to a friend (or 5 :) or someone you feel would benefit from reading it!

And, if you have feedback or suggestions for subjects to cover, please message me…it’s a work in progress.

Andrea@LeadWellCompany.com

Hi! I'm Andrea J. Miller and this is my “On Leading Well” Newsletter. I send this to people in my networks, people I’ve met recently, and friends I want to keep in touch with. You can unsubscribe (AT THE VERY BOTTOM OF THE EMAIL) anytime, I won’t be offended.

___

Today, we’ll talk about: The Mindset You Need to Thrive in the Future of Work

Also this week:

• Book a Free Discovery Call

• 5 Ways to Set More Achievable Goals:

• 9 Trends That Will Shape Work in 2024 and Beyond

___

AI Isn't Going to Take Away Your Job, Your Mindset Is: How to Embrace Technology and Future-Proof Your Career

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We've been told that AI is coming for our jobs and that robots are going to make us all obsolete. 

But what if I told you the biggest threat to your career isn't artificial intelligence...it's your own mindset.

I get it. I’ve been there. 

After spending nearly a decade insulated in the tech time-warp of the United Nations in Geneva, I found myself tech culture-shocked upon returning to the United States. 

Suddenly, I was a digital dinosaur. Resistant. Rigid. 

Convinced that rapidly evolving tools were not something I needed to use. I had tons of reasons. It would be too hard, too time-consuming, too disruptive to my work habits, etc, etc.

The problem is, the harder I resisted, the further I fell behind. I was shocked by the painful realization that my rigid mindset was impacting my career growth – and my future.

---

That's why when ChatGPT became a “thing”, I made an intentional decision - to shatter my limiting mindset and dive headfirst into the AI revolution. And you know what? It turned out to be one of the smartest decisions of my professional life.

Here’s what I discovered: AI isn't a job-killing monster under the bed (at least not yet (we’ll tackle that in a future post). 

With the right training, AI is a multiplier that can hyperdrive your skills, accelerate your output, and compound your creativity.

You may not realize it yet, But it’s happening all around you. 

Healthcare professionals use AI diagnostic tools to identify diseases faster and more accurately than ever before. Writers and analysts are tapping AI to rapidly analyze massive data sets, synthesize insights, and create higher-quality content and decisions in a fraction of the time. Knowledge workers across virtually every industry are leveraging AI to automate rote tasks, freeing them to focus on more interesting activities that leverage their uniquely human traits.

In other words, AI is a force multiplier for the human mind - IF you can move past the fear and resistance.

---

The ugly truth is that many don’t want to admit is that it's not the technology that is the blocker. It's our own ego, fear of the unknown, craving for comfort, and unwillingness to adapt.

As the world shifts under our feet, we cling to old skills and mindsets terrified of letting go.

But here's the problem with that approach - the pace of technological change is now exponential. The hard skills and knowledge we learned in our careers are being made increasingly obsolete and commoditized. Your ability to stay relevant and grow your career now hinges on your capacity for continuous learning, unlearning, and creative reinvention.

In other words, your MINDSET is the new skill.

Those who proactively adopt a growth mindset and stay ahead of disruptive technologies like AI will overtake their peers. While those stuck in the quicksand of rigid thinking and skill complacency in will be left behind.

The choice is yours.

You can cling to your blind spots as the world rapidly changes around you. Or you can embrace a humble, hungry, and hyper-learner mindset, equipping yourself to ride the AI wave and see where this madness goes.

AI disruption is no longer some far-off hypothetical. It's not the future - it's happening right now. It’s not too late, the time to adapt is NOT tomorrow - it's today.

The antidote? Cultivate a growth mindset (yeah, I know, it’s overused, but true) and embrace upskilling and adopting new technologies.

Stop fearing what these tools can take away and start embracing what you can CREATE when you combine your human ingenuity with these superpowers.

If not now, when? 

If not you, who?

The time for choosing is over. One path leads to atrophy, the other to growth.

I've made my choice. What about you?

---

If you're ready to future-proof your career by embracing AI, here are some steps to get started:

1. Demolish your fixed mindset. Confront the voice in your head that says you're not technical enough to learn AI - if you can write or speak, you can use AI. Push through the discomfort and start, however small. Consistency is key.

2. See AI as a multiplier, not a threat. Stop fearing AI will replace you. The hard truth is it may, but if you don’t upskill, it definitely will. Just begin. Start with small, fun things. Then build and amplify your creativity, analysis, and decision-making abilities, etc..

3. Become a continual learner. Learning, not AI is the real 21st-century skill differentiator. Continuously consume new knowledge and skills. Question your existing competencies - they may be becoming obsolete. Reinvent yourself relentlessly or risk irrelevance.

4. Immerse yourself in the future. Follow AI pioneers (DM me for suggestions of who I follow), join online communities, and attend events. Surround yourself with other learners who will inspire your hunger to upskill.

The choice is yours. What small step will you take this week to future-proof your career?

___

A Couple of Interesting Reads:

9 Trends That Will Shape Work in 2024 and Beyond:

Gartner researchers have identified nine key trends, from new and creative employee benefits to the collapse of traditional career paths, that will impact work this year.

5 Ways to Set More Achievable Goals:

Setting goals is a meaningful exercise. Still, so many of us struggle to achieve the goals we set out for ourselves. Here are five ways to set more attainable goals.

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The Lighter Side of Mindset

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That’s it for this week. Thank you for being a subscriber!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, please forward it to a friend (or 5 :) or someone you feel would benefit from reading it!

And, if you have feedback or suggestions for subjects to cover, please message me…it’s a work in progress.

Andrea@LeadWellCompany.com

Thanks for subscribing to On Leading Well.

Hi! I'm Andrea J. Miller and this is my “On Leading Well” Newsletter. I send this to people in my networks, people I’ve met recently, and friends I want to keep in touch with. You can unsubscribe (AT THE VERY BOTTOM OF THE EMAIL) anytime, I won’t be offended.

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Today, we’ll talk about:

Super excited to share that I was recently featured on Label Sessions Presents podcast. We discussed strategies for fostering thriving, multicultural environments, future-proofing your business, creating innovative cultures, and more. You can access the episode HERE.

Also this week:

• Overcoming Fear of AI to Lead More Effectively - HBR

• A Mood Board for building a business:

• The Lighter Side of Excuses

• Book a Free Discovery Call

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Redefine Your Limits: A 5-Step Plan for Turning Excuses Into Strengths

(Thanks to the SuperHuman AI for the inspiration to create this picture :)

In this complicated global workplace, resilience isn’t just beneficial but necessary.

At some point, we all find ourselves making excuses—whether to skip a difficult decision or delay necessary action.

It's human nature.

But what if these excuses could be reframed as powerful catalysts for resilience, change, and growth?

(thanks to the folks at SuperHuman AI for the idea for this visual - so fun to create!)

The Power of Mindset in Leadership

As someone who has navigated significant personal challenges over the years, including three surgeries and chronic pain, I've learned firsthand that excuses don't have to dictate our actions (or I’d never leave the house again :).

Instead, they can be catalysts, pushing us to maintain agility and excel beyond what we perceive as our limitations.

Mindset is more than just a buzzword in the global workplace—it's what drives success.

The belief that you can grow and adapt is essential when facing global challenges.

The research agrees.

Leaders who see their abilities as expandable are not only more resilient but also more effective problem-solvers.

Cultivating Resilient Habits

To support this mindset shift establishing resilient habits is key.

For example, my routine involves a morning workout—unless it's pouring rain or a rest day I go.

This habit doesn't just keep me physically fit; it reinforces my commitment to continuous growth and wellbeing and has become an automatic part of my daily life.

Thanks to neuroplasticity, our mindsets aren't fixed.

We can adopt a growth mindset and develop habits that support this perspective, helping us achieve goals that might once have seemed unreachable.

Reframing Excuses: A Practical Guide for Leaders

In the realm of global leadership, common excuses can be reframed to foster resilience:

• "I don't have enough time"- becomes an opportunity to prioritize effectively, focusing on what truly matters.

• "I'm too tired" - reminds us to prioritize self-care, ensuring we have the energy to lead effectively.

• "I'm not good enough" - shifts focus towards progress and learning, celebrating every small victory on the path to greater achievements.

Living Without Excuses

Adopting a life without excuses means setting clear, actionable goals and backing them up with concrete plans.

It's about leveraging setbacks as opportunities for growth and advancement.

While your motivation might change, this means it won’t matter since the drive to excel comes from the challenges you’re facing.

Steps to Foster Resilience in Leadership

1. Identify your excuses—acknowledge what holds you back.

2. Reframe these excuses—turn each into a compelling reason to act.

3. Set achievable goals—define clear targets that align with your leadership role.

4. Create an action plan—strategize on reaching these goals efficiently.

5. Practice self-compassion—be kind to yourself, understanding that growth is a process.

Remember, resilience is about how quickly you can get back up.

And yes, even Batman has those days where Gotham seems too daunting, and the cape feels heavier.

Starting small and maintaining consistency can significantly transform both your personal and professional outcomes.

So, are you ready to redefine yourself through resilience?

___

A Couple of Interesting Reads:

A Mood Board for building a business:

We often create mood or vision boards for what we want in life, but what about how we want to show up in our work?

Overcoming Fear of AI to Lead More Effectively - HBR

While some people love AI, not everyone on your team feels the same way.

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The Lighter Side of Excuses

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That’s it for this week. Thank you for being a subscriber!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, please forward it to a friend (or 5 :) or someone you feel would benefit from reading it!

And, if you have feedback or suggestions for subjects to cover, please message me…it’s a work in progress.

Andrea J. Miller

andrea@leadwellcompany.com

Hi! I'm Andrea J. Miller and this is my “On Leading Well” Newsletter. I send this to people in my networks, people I’ve met recently, and friends I want to keep in touch with. You can unsubscribe (AT THE VERY BOTTOM OF THE EMAIL) anytime, I won’t be offended.

___

Mastering Overwhelm: Proven Strategies for Peak Performance

Also this week:

• Try This When You Aren't Sure What To Do

• Pinkcast 2.16: This is how to give better feedback in just 19 words

• Book a Free Discovery Call

• The Lighter Side of Remakes

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Mastering Overwhelm: Proven Strategies for Peak Performance

We're all too familiar with the feeling - your inbox is overflowing, your calendar is packed, the meetings never end and you're perpetually playing catch-up.

The reality?

We're navigating an era of unprecedented overwhelm.

But here's the twist: overcoming it isn't about grand gestures; it's about being strategic about everyday choices.

Let's dive into real, actionable strategies that can transform overwhelm from a constant nagging feeling of dread into a manageable aspect of our lives.

This state isn't just uncomfortable—it's unsustainable.

I draw not only on personal experience but also on the science of stress and productivity.

Overwhelm isn't a personal failing, it's a systemic issue, and addressing it requires understanding its roots in our work culture and cognitive limitations.

As someone who’s navigated the global life, and faced countless personal challenges, I’ve learned a thing or two about overcoming overwhelm and I’ve created something of a toolkit to manage it.

It's more than a mission; it's a passion.

Understanding Our Overwhelm

It's not just feeling busy.

It's our minds and bodies signaling a red alert.

Neuroscience explains why the relentless pace of our digital world clashes with our brain's wiring.

My interactions, grounded in these realities, reflect a broader truth: our wellbeing is at stake.

Emotional Intelligence: It starts with identifying and managing our emotional responses to stress. It's not about suppressing feelings but understanding and dealing with them practically.

Adaptability Quotient (AQ): In a world that values IQ and EQ, AQ is something of an unsung hero. It’s about how quickly you can pivot in response to change as well as how comfortable you feel in the process. The faster we’re able to adapt, the less overwhelming change feels.

Strategic Wellbeing: This goes beyond the occasional spa day (though personally, I think they always help). It’s about integrating practices into our daily lives that sustain our mental, physical, and emotional health.

From Insight to Action: Your Toolkit for Overwhelm

Enough theory. Let’s get practical. Here are a few strategies that have not only worked for me but for countless clients:

1.    Mindfulness Practices: Yes, I know, you can’t/don’t meditate, but it doesn’t have to be a big. Start with five minutes a day. Meditation, deep breathing, or simply sitting quietly with your morning coffee can make a difference.

2.    Prioritize Like a Pro: Every task is not created equal. Identify your non-negotiables, permit yourself to focus on what truly matters, and let go of the rest. This may just be the key you’ve been resisting.

3.    Build Your Support System: This isn't just about having people to lean on (though don’t underestimate their importance). It's about creating an environment where it's okay to say no, to delegate, and to ask for help.

4.    Embrace Change: View challenges as opportunities. This mindset shift is at the heart of increasing your AQ.

The Bottom Line

Overwhelm doesn't have to be your status quo.

With the right strategies and mindset, what once seemed like insurmountable challenges can become manageable—and even growth opportunities.

I’m here to guide you through this process, step by step. Ready to start?

This isn’t just advice—it’s the beginning of a game plan.

In managing the overwhelm, knowledge is power, and, somewhat ironically, action is the strategy.

Let's redefine what it means to work and live in this hyper-connected world. It's time to take back control.

Are you ready?

___

A Couple of Interesting Reads:

Try This When You Aren't Sure What To Do

When you’re feeling stuck, change your default behavior. Avoid scrolling through feeds (in fact, avoid your phone altogether if possible), and steer clear of the typical things you do when you’re procrastinating.

Pinkcast 2.16: This is how to give better feedback in just 19 words

A simple way to improve the feedback process, from the great Dan Pink.

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The Lighter Side of Overwhelm

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That’s it for this week. Thank you for being a subscriber!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, please forward it to a friend (or 5 :) or someone you feel would benefit from reading it!

And, if you have feedback or suggestions for subjects to cover, please message me…it’s a work in progress.

Andrea J. Miller

Andrea@LeadWellCompany.com

Hi! I'm Andrea J. Miller and this is my “On Leading Well” Newsletter. I send this to people in my networks, people I’ve met recently, and friends I want to keep in touch with. You can unsubscribe (AT THE VERY BOTTOM OF THE EMAIL) anytime, I won’t be offended.

___

Redefining Leadership: The Power of Presence in the Modern Workplace

Also this week:

• The Big Work Lie: Being Indispensable Will Save Your Job

• They Chose to Take a Pay Cut—and Say They’re Happier

• Book a Free Discovery Call

• The Lighter Side of Presence

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Redefining Leadership: The Power of Presence in the Modern Workplace

The traditional symbols of success are no longer enough, a new kind of leadership is emerging.

It transcends credentials and relies on the intangible yet undeniable power of presence.

The Essence of Leadership Presence

Leadership presence is an indescribable quality that sets true leaders apart.

It's the ability to command a room without saying a word, to inspire others through your very being.

In today's fast-changing business world, it's becoming essential for those who want to make a lasting impact.

It’s a conversation that I’m having more often with my clients, so I thought it was important to cover

The Three Pillars of Presence

According to renowned expert Sylvia Ann Hewlett, leadership presence rests on three key pillars:

1. Gravitas: The ability to maintain composure and confidence in the face of adversity

2. Communication: The art of active listening and meaningful, impactful messaging

3. Appearance: The nonverbal cues that reflect your professional aspirations and values

But there's also a crucial fourth pillar that underlies them all, emotional intelligence.

By developing a deeper understanding of yourself and others, you can build the trust and connection essential for effective leadership in an age of greater uncertainty.

Cultivating Your Leadership Presence

So how can you develop your leadership presence?

Here are a few key strategies:

1. Craft Your Leadership Identity: Think about what you stand for, what you're good at, and where you want to go. Use this to guide how you lead.

2. Improve Communication: Get better at listening, speak clearly, and make sure your messages are straightforward and meaningful.

3. Build Confidence: Work on being (or at least appearing) confident, staying calm when things get tough, and showing authority when needed.

4. Grow Your Knowledge: Keep learning in your field to be a leader others look to for advice and direction.

5. Enhance Emotional Intelligence: Boost your ability to understand your own emotions, empathize with others, and handle social situations effectively.

6. Get and Use Feedback: Find mentors and ask for feedback to improve. Use what you learn to make better decisions.

7. Pursue Ongoing Development: Always look for ways to get better, re-evaluate your progress, and adapt your approach to lead effectively as things change.

Authenticity: The Missing Piece for Lasting Impact

In a world of constant change and uncertainty, authenticity has become the ultimate leadership currency.

By staying true to yourself while adapting to the needs of the moment, you can create a leadership style that is uniquely your own and deeply impactful to others.

Ultimately, leadership presence is an ongoing process.

By committing to your continual growth and development and staying true to your character and values, you can cultivate these skills and qualities that will set you apart.

So why settle?

Invest in yourself, and unlock your potential to create lasting change in your career and beyond.

A Few More References:

Executive Presence 2.0: Leadership in an Age of Inclusion by Sylvia Ann Hewlett

Own the Room: Discover Your Signature Voice to Master Your Leadership Presence

True North: Leading Authentically in Today's Workplace, Emerging Leaders Edition, 3rd Edition

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The Big Work Lie: Being Indispensable Will Save Your Job

Becoming the only staffer with certain skills or information might feel like insurance. To some bosses, it’s a red flag.

They Chose to Take a Pay Cut—and Say They’re Happier

Switching to a job with a lower salary often means trimming your expenses, but it can come with a raise in free time and work-life balance

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The Lighter Side of Presence

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That’s it for this week. Thank you for being a subscriber!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, please forward it to a friend (or 5 :) or someone you feel would benefit from reading it!

And, if you have feedback or suggestions for subjects to cover, please message me…it’s a work in progress.

Andrea J. Miller

Hi! I'm Andrea J. Miller and this is my “On Leading Well” Newsletter. I send this to people in my networks, people I’ve met recently, and friends I want to keep in touch with. You can unsubscribe (AT THE VERY BOTTOM OF THE EMAIL) anytime, I won’t be offended.

___

Today, we’ll talk about The Great Remake: A Lesson in Innovation from the Grammy Stage 

Also this week:

• Courtney Dauwalter: Step inside the 'pain cave', where rules are remade

• The New Science on What Ultra-Processed Food Does to Your Brain - WSJ

• Book a Free Discovery Call

• The Lighter Side of Remakes

___

The Great Remake: A Lesson in Innovation from the Grammy Stage 

The world’s changing so quickly it’s getting harder to keep up, let alone find inspiration.

We search for the latest trend so we can…

Live better.

Work better.

Be better.

The best example of this is the recent rapid uptake of AI.

But success isn’t always found in the latest and greatest trend. Sometimes we need to look backward to go forward.

I was recently reminded of this while watching Tracy Chapman and Luke Combs’ incredible duet of "Fast Car," which she originally recorded some 35 years ago.

Combs’ hit remake reminded us of Chapman’s remarkable talent while also attracting a new group of fans.

The Essence of a Great Remake

A great remake takes an old, sometimes forgotten idea and updates it to resonate with the current tastes and needs of the consumer.

It re-imagines it while (hopefully) maintaining the things that made it so great in the first place.

This is why the Combs and Chapman collaboration went far beyond a mere duet.

It demonstrated how integrating different perspectives can enrich and broaden the appeal of familiar ideas so that an even larger market finds value in them.

And The Award Goes To…

Synergy: Combs and Chapman's collaboration amplified the song's impact, demonstrating that collective efforts, in music or business can produce better results in new markets while maintaining the previous fan base.

Innovation: Effective collaborations inject new life into existing frameworks, advancing creativity and discovery to create successful products.

Adaptation: The capacity to remake and adapt ensures resilience and relevance, allowing businesses or songs to thrive amidst changing times.

While seemingly simple, this process requires leaders to create environments where collaboration and the ability to ‘remake' things can flourish.

As with any innovative process, staff need a sense of psychological safety to feel comfortable taking chances…whether with the familiar or something new.

People need to know that initiative is valued.

Regardless of whether it’s a hit or flop.

Actions for Embracing 'The Great Remake'

1. Cultivate Diverse Teams: Encourage team members with different backgrounds to share perspectives and experiences.

2. Promote Open Communication: Facilitate discussions that bridge the traditional and contemporary, creating more comprehensive solutions.

3. Leverage the Remake Concept: Support teams to identify and reimagine proven strategies or products, adapting them to current contexts and challenges.

4. Celebrate Innovative Achievements: Acknowledge when teams successfully look at things from a different perspective, reinforcing the value of this approach.

The collaboration between Luke Combs and Tracy Chapman is more than just a memorable musical moment—it's a blueprint for leveraging surprising partnerships for innovation.

One that you and your team can use as motivation for rethinking old and new ideas at work.

So, what are you waiting for…crank up the volume, reflect on your past hits, and create your own great remake.

PS-I hope you found this useful and whenever you're ready, here’s an additional way I can help you:

• Book a free discovery call with me. I'd love to meet you and talk about the goals you want to achieve.

___

A Couple of Interesting Reads:

The New Science on What Ultra-Processed Food Does to Your Brain

Studies are finding links between these foods and changes in the way we learn, remember and feel

Courtney Dauwalter: Step inside the 'pain cave', where rules are remade

A little inspiration courtesy of the BBC about just how far we can push ourselves

___

The Lighter Side of Remakes

___

That’s it for this week. Thank you for being a subscriber!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, please forward it to a friend (or 5 :) or someone you feel would benefit from reading it!

And, if you have feedback or suggestions for subjects to cover, please message me…it’s a work in progress.

Andrea J. Miller

+1 (646) 556-5401 (Whatsapp)

—

Hi! I'm Andrea J. Miller and this is my “On Leading Well” Newsletter. I send this to people in my networks, people I’ve met recently, and friends I want to keep in touch with. You can unsubscribe (AT THE VERY BOTTOM OF THE EMAIL) anytime, I won’t be offended.

—

Let's Re-Connect

• New connection? Let's get acquainted

• Old friend? Let's catch up

One simple step:

Book a 30-minute chat on my calendar HERE

No agenda, I promise. Just connecting with another human.

__

Is Your Authenticity Holding You Back?

You're a high performer.

You consistently exceed expectations and deliver results.

But lately, you've noticed that being your authentic self is no longer enough to get ahead.

The company culture has shifted, and political savvy matters more than talent.

Sound familiar?

One of my rockstar clients faced this exact dilemma.

She was crushing her targets but struggled to advance in her increasingly bureaucratic organization.

Her direct, no-nonsense approach, that was once celebrated, was now seen as a liability.

She felt pressured to play political games, but it went against everything she stood for.

The Authenticity Paradox

Her story illustrates the authenticity paradox, that clashes between staying true to yourself and adapting to succeed in your career.

It's a tension that many high-achievers face as they climb the corporate ladder.

On one hand, authenticity is a valuable leadership trait that inspires trust and engagement.

On the other hand, success often demands flexibility and the ability to navigate complex power dynamics.

So, how do you reconcile this paradox?

How can you remain authentic while still getting ahead?

The first step is reflection and clarity about what matters most to you in your career.

Is staying true to your authentic self, or goal achievement your top priority?

There's no right or wrong answer but understanding your values and non-negotiables is essential.

For my client, authenticity was non-negotiable.

She realized that being in a company that valued her talents over her ability to be political was more important than advancing in an environment that didn't align with her values.

But for others, goal achievement may be the priority.

Mastering the Authenticity Paradox:

1. Align your values with your organization. Look for companies that share your core beliefs and priorities. When your values align, authenticity becomes an asset, not a liability.

2. Adapt your style, not your substance. You can adjust your communication and behavior to fit your audience without compromising your integrity. It's about being strategic, not fake.

3. Build a strong network of allies. Surround yourself with supportive colleagues who appreciate your authentic leadership style. These relationships can provide guidance, encouragement, and a sounding board as you navigate challenges and grow as a leader.

The Bottomline:

Navigating the authenticity paradox is a skill that every high achiever must master.

It requires self-awareness, adaptability, and a willingness to make tough choices.

But the first and most critical step is reflection.

Gain clarity on your core values—whether it's staying true to yourself or achieving your goals. This will guide you to make decisions that align with your authentic self.

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Weekly Recommendations

Want to Be a Better Leader? Stop Thinking About Work After Hours.

Managers who can't stop thinking about work after hours, especially those new to leadership, may struggle with exhaustion and effectiveness in their roles, according to new research. The ability to disconnect is essential for their well-being and success.

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The Lighter Side of Authenticity

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That’s it for this week. Thank you for being a subscriber!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, please forward it to a friend (or 5 :) or someone you feel would benefit from reading it!

And, if you have feedback or suggestions for subjects to cover, please message me…it’s a work in progress.

Andrea J. Miller

+1 (646) 556-5401 (Whatsapp)

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Hi! I'm Andrea J. Miller and this is my “On Leading Well” Newsletter. I send this to people in my networks, people I’ve met recently, and friends I want to keep in touch with. You can unsubscribe (AT THE VERY BOTTOM OF THE EMAIL) anytime, I won’t be offended.

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Let's Re-Connect

• New connection? Let's get acquainted

• Old friend? Let's catch up

One simple step:

Book a 30-minute chat on my calendar HERE

No agenda, I promise. Just connecting with another human.

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The Art of Resilient Leadership: Thriving in the Face of Rejection

Is rejection the secret ingredient to leadership success?

We’ve all faced the pain of rejection.

It's a blow to the ego and a test of our resilience.

But what if we could reframe it, understanding that often, a 'no' isn't about our worth but simply a mismatch of circumstances?

It's an idea that can shift our entire perspective on failure in our careers.

Rejection is a universal experience—painful yet necessary.

It's a moment that requires reflection and can create incredible growth opportunities.

The truth is that most rejections in our careers have little to do with us.

They're about a lot of factors beyond our control—timing, organizational needs, or even the specific vision of a role that we might not fit, regardless of our abilities or achievements.

Take the recent case of my client (and muse for this post)—he’s got an incredible resume and the references to match, yet he experienced a painful 'no', failing even to get an interview.

But it wasn't his capabilities they questioned; it was a matter of fit.

His innovative background and mindset weren’t the right fit for the very traditional organization he’d applied.

Though still painful, this insight helped him overcome the disappointment to actively pursue other roles that genuinely matched his values and talents.

The resilience from these challenges is one of our greatest assets in our interconnected, fast-paced world.

The stories of icons like Steve Jobs, Brian Chesky, and Oprah Winfrey remind us that today's rejection can be an important step to tomorrow's success.

Their journeys teach us that each 'no' can build resolve, and help us refine our goals and strategies.

So how do we handle rejection with greater resilience and determination?

First, don’t ignore your emotions—acknowledge the hurt, but don’t dwell on it.

Next, get clarity on the 'why' behind the 'no.' Use the key lessons to inform and improve our strategies moving forward.

It's about targeting opportunities where our values and skills match to increase our chances of job satisfaction and success.

And importantly, we must cultivate emotional intelligence. There’s little more important in our increasingly fast-paced world than our ability to understand and manage our reactions to setbacks and adapt.

This emotional insight will also help us find the right opportunities, and swipe right on success when it appears.

While an uncomfortable lesson(s), embracing rejection is an important part of our growth that allows us to plan our futures with purpose, actively looking for opportunities that match our skills and potential.

So, when you next encounter a 'no', try not to view it as a setback but as a chance to refine, adjust, and intentionally move forward on your goals.

TL;DR / Action Steps Recap:

1. Process Your Emotions: Accept your feelings post-rejection but don't get mired in them.

2. Seek Clarity: Understand why you were rejected to improve future endeavors.

3. Aim for the Right Fit: Align your pursuits with organizations that value your unique contributions.

4. Grow Your Resilience: Use rejection as fuel for growth and persistence.

5. Embrace Emotional Intelligence: Manage your emotional responses to maintain confidence and optimism.

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Weekly Recommendations

One Minute Focus

To regain focus, watch the dot on the One Minute Focus for 60 seconds. It's designed to sharpen your attention on subsequent activities. While it could be a placebo effect, I've found it genuinely helpful. (Acknowledgment to Dan Pink.)

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The (not so) Lighter Side of Rejection

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That’s it for this week. Thank you for being a subscriber!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, please forward it to a friend (or 5 :) or someone you feel would benefit from reading it!

And, if you have feedback or suggestions for subjects to cover, please message me…it’s a work in progress.

Andrea J. Miller

+1 (646) 556-5401 (Whatsapp)