Recently, I had the privilege of attending a 1.5-day leadership workshop at a nature resort with an incredible group of colleagues. The workshop explored the Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous (VUCA) landscape that many of us navigate today. There’s a lot of noise around us. We focused on understanding how to lead effectively within this framework and learned tools to create agency during these challenging times.

Despite having undergone significant leadership training—and believing I was well-versed in the necessary tools and self-awareness—I discovered there was still much more to learn. Through discussions, listening to others' experiences, and reflecting on my own choices and preferences, I gained new insights.

One of the key takeaways for me was the power of sharing, supporting, and being open and curious. During this session, I committed to listening with a fresh perspective—as if hearing for the first time. This approach led to remarkable outcomes. It involved feeling, thinking, exploring, sharing, and reflecting on the life experiences that define who we are today. It’s about digging deep—there are no right or wrong answers, only increased self-understanding.

A friend of mine recently took a big leap in pursuit of her bliss and purpose. She decided to leave her full-time job to work as a consultant, accepting a new contract. Not only did she make this bold move, but she also asked for what she needed and wanted—and she got it. This is the bravery it takes to truly be authentic. At the retreat, I heard an expression that resonated with me: “You can’t play scared.” She is definitely embodying that spirit.

What these two days truly highlighted was the power of authenticity. The level of support, shared experiences, and the way individuals showed up for each other were inspiring. The conversations, learnings, and openness were incredible. I left with deep gratitude and a renewed appreciation for the human experience and its potential.

For me, being vulnerable during the workshop led to surprising areas of exploration. I learned to let go of old stories that no longer serve me and embraced the process of releasing them. This letting go is about welcoming something new that will serve you better. Although this shift can be scary—because our familiar stories often make us feel safe—they can also hinder growth and understanding.

The event took place in a stunning natural setting, allowing for introspection and a shift in perspective. The environment—cold plunges, outdoor fires, the smell of earth, the sound of the creek and birds—provided a backdrop that encouraged reflection. With nourishing food and no stimulants (except morning coffee), I could truly breathe in the beauty and let go of anything I needed to release.

This journey is not a one-time event—it is ongoing. There is no final destination. It’s an evolution, where we continue to be curious and thoughtful about ourselves and how we show up for others. It’s the connections and sharing that make life—whether at work, play, or home—well-led and fulfilling.