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Creating Space … To Lead Beyond the Title

Leading With VOICCE® Series.

I remember the first day I brought my oldest son home from the hospital. He was so sweet all bundled up in my arms. I looked down at his face and said, “Wow, they just expect me to know how to do this, huh? Well, let’s see how things go, kid.”


I’m proud to share that not only did I raise one incredible human, but I raised two! And while I made many mistakes along the way, I didn’t break them! Which, not so secretly, was my biggest fear the whole time. I figured it out, through practice, support from loved ones, and a lot of grace from God. 


While I realize being a parent is in many ways quite different than inspiring and empowering other adults as a people leader, in many ways, it’s quite the same. Especially when you are thrust into the position for the first time, and people seem to think that because you were really good at DOING the work, you must automatically be really good at LEADING the work, right?


Wrong. So Wrong. 


I’ve had so many conversations over the last few months with leaders, some who are leading people for the very first time, and some who have been leading others for quite some time. 


There is a consensus: I feel completely lost and out of my depth. 


I’m having a hard time doing my work, and leading others to do theirs too. 


I know many many organizations have well-intended leadership programs to help support their people leaders. But how well are we gauging their effectiveness? 


I’d also venture to say that in recent times of increasing uncertainty, volatility, and change, there is less and less focus on leadership readiness, and more expectation for agility and adaptability - but with what guidance? More importantly, at what cost?


When leaders feel unprepared to lead, the whole organization feels it. The individuals who rely on them feel the weight of uncertainty, regardless of what is being communicated. Cross-functional teams falter, and progress stalls. Conversely, when people leaders are set up for success, the opposite becomes true.


  • Confident leaders set a clear vision and make clear decisions that strengthen team engagement and cross-functional collaboration

  • Equipped leaders have greater resilience that empowers the team to handle stress more effectively, leading to greater self-sufficiency

  • Self-aware leaders understand that the work starts within. They model authentic leadership that elevates strengths and accelerates growth across the organization.

The Practice - Check In


If you support a people leader, ask:


  1. Where do you feel most clear and steady in your leadership right now, and where are you still finding your footing?

  2. What feels most energizing in your leadership role right now, and what feels most draining?

  3. When things feel unclear or stressful, what guides your decisions?


When organizations help leaders build internal clarity, they don’t just improve leadership performance - they strengthen trust, resilience, and the entire system.


If you want to lead others with greater clarity and impact, ask:


  1. Where do I feel most grounded and effective in how I’m leading right now?

  2. What kind of leader do I want to be known as, and where have I seen these qualities modeled? 

  3. What specific support or resource do I need right now to move forward with clarity, and who can help provide it?


By taking time to get clear on what feels challenging and develop a clear ASK, you are not only advocating for yourself, but advocating for the individuals you lead as well.


None of us steps into the role of people leader for the first time having all the answer - nor the second time, or the tenth time. However, when we reflect with honesty, and respond with courage, we not only empower ourselves, we expand our ability to empower others.

Leadership Support


I am currently enrolling for the VOICCE®Leadership Intensive. A powerful 8-week experience designed to help leaders who are spread too thin move from chaos to clear, calm, confident leadership - at work and at home.


Tangible outcomes leaders can expect include:


  • Renewed energy and clarity in decision-making: Reduce mental exhaustion and decision fatigue so you can focus your energy on what matters most - at work and at home.

  • Strong, values-aligned boundaries without guilt: Learn how to say yes and no with confidence, clarity, and peace - without second-guessing yourself.

  • Calm, grounded leadership under pressure: Develop inner steadiness that allows you to lead with poise, even when things feel uncertain or intense.

  • Authentic influence and deeper connection: Lead from who you truly are, build trust-based relationships, and influence others without overextending or shapeshifting.

Submit your interest form no later than Friday January 16 to qualify for early action incentives.


Organizations looking to refer or sponsor leaders should tap here to learn more.

The upcoming cohort begins Friday, February 20.


Thank you for your presence. I am so excited to continue this journey with you!


With gratitude, Tian.


Tian Philson Leadership, Wellness & Mindset Coach | Creator of the VOICCE® Decision Making & Empowerment Framework | Helping leaders go inward so they can go upward.

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