One of the most effective and often overlooked strategies is structured feedback. Whether it comes from direct reports, a coach, or even a partner at home, feedback provides leaders with a mirror. It reveals whether intentions are aligning with impact. Yet, in many organisations, feedback remains a neglected tool. Surprisingly, a significant number of senior leaders have never received direct, developmental feedback. Even more striking: many are deeply uncomfortable giving it. Why? I think it’s because feedback is often framed as criticism rather than what it truly is a tool for growth, a signal of trust, and a lever for accountability. When feedback is seen as a gift, it opens the door to real-time course correction and continuous improvement.
Change only happens when you are ready
Have you ever tried to change the behaviour of a partner or spouse who had no interest in changing? Or a teenager who just wasn’t having it? How did that work out?
In my coaching practice, when clients are motivated, open, and committed to doing the work, they always move forward, not because I say so, but because they say so. Everything we discuss is 100% confidential. Please note that before our first session, we will both sign a non-disclosure agreement to ensure your privacy and trust are fully protected.
Hire an expert
Leadership development isn’t just about attending inspiring keynotes or completing DEI training programs, it’s about what happens afterward. If your leader returned from such a program and never shared what they learned or how it might influence the team, you likely felt disappointed or disconnected. That silence speaks volumes about your leader.
I think real growth comes from implementation, not just insight. I believe in a leadership development process that is not only proven but practical. One that can be developed, coached, and scaled through partnerships, because leadership isn’t theoretical: you can’t learn to swim by reading a book. The real challenge isn’t understanding leadership, it’s practicing it, consistently and courageously, in everyday interactions.
It’s a business imperative
Creating a sense of belonging is no longer a “nice-to-have.” As I look to grow within a truly international organisation, I am particularly motivated to work alongside senior executives, where I believe I can drive the greatest impact. One of the emerging challenges for leaders today, especially in Denmark is building inclusive cultures that sustain high trust. Denmark’s society has long been rooted in shared history and cultural norms. However, with more than 600,000 residents now holding non-Danish passports, integrating diverse perspectives into the social and professional fabric is critical. I think how leaders respond to this shift will define the success and resilience of their organisations in the years ahead.
Cultivating skills
Comfort is a natural human preference, leadership requires recognising when the pursuit of comfort undermines growth. Discomfort often triggers cognitive resistance, yet it is essential for innovation and learning. Effective leaders distinguish between upholding their core values and reacting defensively when others do not mirror them. How do you lead when faced with perspectives that challenge your beliefs? Leaders who prioritise personal comfort over collective progress risk surrounding themselves with "people like us." I think this dynamic stifles diversity, weakens resilience, and narrows strategic vision.
Think like a coach
I have written on numerous occasions about both the growth and fixed mindsets, but as I am currently studying for my ICF accreditation, I want to focus on the coaching mindset. Our mindset serves as the reference point by which we interpret our thoughts and frame the world around us. As coaches, having a coaching mindset is crucial. The more awareness we have both of our clients and of the coaching process itself, the deeper and more transformative our work with clients can be.
Facts on Friday
Romantic love is a relatively recent concept, only about 300 years old. Before the 1700s, marriage was not about love but about maintaining family lines, property, political affiliations, and class associations. Spouses were often chosen at birth, and individuals had little say in the matter. Marriages were negotiated by parents, the community, and extended families, as they recognised that marriage connected families, not just individuals.
All hands
You can’t experience everything in the world, and you can’t rely solely on what’s inside you, because we are all limited in perspective, that’s why I think empathy is essential. Emotions like sadness, anger, and fear are natural and crucial for personal growth. When we avoid them, we miss valuable opportunities to learn, heal, and build resilience. One way to move forward is by breaking down your goals into smaller, manageable steps, things you can do today or this week. For example, instead of trying to manifest a new job all at once, focus on actionable steps like updating your CV or scheduling time to apply for roles.
Start by slowing down
In a world that rewards speed, performance, and certainty, leadership can become narrowly defined. The leaders who create real, lasting change are often those who can slow down long enough to listen to themselves, to others, and to the systems they’re part of. These are the leaders who understand that storytelling isn’t just communication, it’s a tool for connection, transformation, and vision-building.
““Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all.” ”
Nuance not noise
Conversations about DEI require more than opinions, they demand data, rigour, and reflection. It’s easy to reduce these topics to headlines or soundbites, but real progress depends on our ability to lead with nuance. I think that as leaders, we must hold space for complex conversations. We must ask difficult questions without defaulting to fear, and we must challenge our own assumptions and those of others with facts, not just feelings. DEI is not about lowering standards, it’s about expanding access. It’s about creating systems where talent, skill, and potential aren’t limited by bias or structural barriers. What do you think?
Time and energy are valuable resources
I remind myself daily that my true power lies in how I choose to respond. I can’t control how others behave, but I can control where I direct my time and energy. Stressing over rude people or petty situations only drains my power, and if I let that happen too often, I risk never reaching my full potential. Time and energy are the two most valuable resources we have, and how we use them shapes the quality of our lives. I think real strength begins by asking myself on a daily basis: Am I investing in my growth? Am I protecting my peace?
What makes a great mentor?
When we think about the people who have shaped our personal and professional growth, mentors often rise to the top of the list. What actually makes a mentor great? It’s not just about experience or expertise, it’s about how they show up for you, challenge you, and help you grow into your best self.
Great mentors often see your potential before you do, they challenge you to stretch beyond your comfort zone, pushing you in ways you may not expect but always need. Instead of handing you answers, they encourage you to ask better questions, refining your thinking, sharpening your curiosity, and helping you navigate uncertainty with more confidence. They understand that growth is a journey, not a destination. That's why they expect and encourage continuous improvement, cheering you on through small wins and big lessons alike. And while they support you in setting goals, they also dare you to dream bigger than you thought possible.
One of the most powerful things a mentor can do is challenge your assumptions. They help you uncover blind spots, see from new perspectives, and think more critically about your choices and beliefs. And here’s something you might not always notice right away: the best mentors are still learning, too, as they embody humility and curiosity, showing that growth never really ends. Good mentors also value independence. They respect mentees who take initiative, explore ideas on their own, and come to the table with insights and questions. Self-taught learners are often deeply appreciated, because they reflect the kind of drive and ownership that makes mentorship truly meaningful.
At the heart of it all, a great mentor isn’t trying to mold you into their image. Their goal is to teach you how to think, not what to think. So, you can step fully into your own voice, vision, and power. Whether you're lucky enough to have a great mentor now or hoping to become one yourself, I think it’s important to remember that mentorship is less about giving answers and more about creating space for growth, reflection, and transformation.
Branding vs. Marketing
Branding is why
Marketing is how
Branding is your story
Marketing is how you tell it
Branding earns loyalty
Marketing drives action
Branding is the foundation
Marketing is the structure
Branding is the being
Marketing is the doing
Branding is macro
Marketing is micro
Branding defines trajectory
Marketing defines tactics
Branding is long-term
Marketing is short-term
Branding shapes culture
Marketing shapes campaigns
Branding is the promise of value
Marketing is the proof of value
I see branding as the essence of who you are, the identity and character of your business. Marketing, on the other hand, is how you build awareness of that brand. Branding is your long-term strategy, while marketing is made up of the tactical actions you take to reach your goals. Do you agree?
Increased trust and relatability
Coaching effectiveness is influenced by a variety of factors, and research suggests that racial and cultural alignment can significantly enhance engagement, trust, and overall outcomes. A 2020 study published in the Journal of Business and Psychology found that employees are more likely to trust and actively engage with mentors and leaders who share similar racial or ethnic backgrounds. This shared experience fosters deeper connections and strengthens the coaching relationship. Similarly, the International Coaching Federation (ICF) underscores the importance of cultural competence, emphasising that coaches who understand and reflect their clients’ backgrounds are better equipped to tailor their approach to meet specific needs.
We are all being shaped
As leaders, we are often encouraged to focus on external metrics, for example, visibility, performance, recognition. When we neglect the internal work, we risk losing our centre. Blaming society or systems may feel justified, and it also gives away our power. Yes, we have all been shaped, some may say manipulated by the pace of social media and the pressure to stay constantly "on." And in that, many have drifted from the deeper roots of community whether that’s Church, Synagogue, Mosque, or simply meaningful service to others. In my opinion, you can't lead with clarity if your life is led by everything else around you. I think by reclaiming your focus, values, and connection it isn’t just personal, it’s part of your leadership responsibility.
The importance of letting go
When you face criticism, see it as an opportunity to sharpen your focus and reaffirm your commitment to your vision. There’s a key difference between focus and attachment. Focus is rooted in clarity and intention, it’s about knowing what you want and why you want it. Attachment, on the other hand, is about trying to control the outcome, often driven by fear or a sense of lack. When you're attached to a specific result, you may inadvertently block the very thing you're trying to attract. Instead, practice focusing on what you desire, then release your grip on how and when it will come. Trust that the universe or life itself knows the best way to bring your vision into reality. Be open to possibilities you may not have considered. Focus on the what and the why, and let the universe take care of the how and when.
I think it’s essential to remember that maintaining your focus when things don’t go as planned is just as important. These moments may be invitations to grow, opportunities to become the person who is not only capable of achieving, but also sustaining, what you truly want.
Time well spent
Some things in life are best when we can telescope, compress, accelerate, and streamline them, making the process more efficient. And then there are things where the true value lies in the inefficiency, in the time spent, the time endured, and the effort invested.
““As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.””
Authentic leadership traits
Infographic © Justin Wright
““A cat that dreams of becoming a lion must lose its appetite for rats.””
Nature is our teacher
Self-assessment is a superpower as it allows you to challenge and change self-limiting beliefs, giving you the ability to choose your emotional state rather than be at the mercy of it. The more aware you become, the more power you have to direct your focus and attract what you truly want. While humans are self-aware, the contents of our minds differ because we all have unique life experiences. As a result, our unconscious mind is often in a constant state of judging, complaining, liking, and disliking, based on what it believes to be true. I understand that if you grow up rooting for one sports team, you may be told to hate another, but if you consciously observe this belief, you may ask: Why should hate exist at all?
Trust the process
Here’s a thoughtful list of mindset shifts that support emotional detachment in a healthy, self-empowering way:
- Let people be who they want to be, then decide if you want them in your life.
- Trust that rejection is always redirection to something bigger and better.
- Some people are only meant to help you grow, not be in your life forever.
- What if everything is falling apart to come together in a way you can’t guess?
- Focus only on what you can control.
I think each point touches on a different layer of letting go, trusting the process, and reclaiming your energy.