Creating Space… To Lead Like Nature Teaches

Leading With VOICCE® Series.

If there's one thing I'm proud of, it's my ability to be authentically me - as a business owner, as a mom, as a wife, and as a leader. Of all spaces, leadership authenticity is where I first tested the waters. And now I see evidence of that courage showing up in every part of my life. 

I'm proud because showing up with authenticity did not come naturally to me. Frankly, it was quite terrifying. All humans crave belonging. What's so mesmerizing to me is that we often abandon ourselves in order to feel connected to others. And my story is no exception.

As a business owner, I've found myself having a bit of an identity crisis lately. I mean, what the heck does Love, Strength, and Fitness have to do with Leadership Transformation and Decision-Making? The answer is - not much, yet everything. On the outside, these words feel like a disconnect. It's not until you go deeper that you understand the root, and then you can see the connection. LSF - the name, the logo, and what it represents is rooted in transformation. It's a holistic approach to how we show up mentally, physically, and emotionally.

It all started with the transformation I experienced in yoga. Yoga took me inward, so I could shed the layers of performance, expectation, and self-judgement. From it emerged Self Love, Mental Strength, and Physical Fitness. From this transformation came an understanding about myself that started to show up in every part of my life - especially within my leadership. 

What's wild is that as my leadership was evolving, so was my appreciation and connection to the natural world that surrounds us. As a yoga teacher, I brought that awareness to the mat: 

• Stand tall in mountain pose

• Let your torso spill over like a waterfall in a forward fold

• Root down into your tree

But those words came to life off the mat as well. As a leader, I found a path toward a steadier and more self-assured style of leadership.

I've learned to practice adaptability, allowing my responses to flow like a river - not forcing, but moving with purpose. I now stand firm in my beliefs. Mountains withstand immense external pressure - winds, storms, and more - rising above pressure with resilience and perspective. Above all, I can stay grounded. I remain connected to my roots while rising up. Like trees, I now allow for seasons of growth and seasons of release. 

Every time I am faced with conflict, uncertainty, or any other form of volatility, these mental cues and visual reminders resurface for me. I am able to show up authentically because I no longer feel the need to perform a role. I value growth, so being adaptable allows me to see other perspectives. I value integrity, so although I can see your perspective, I won't act outside of my own character. And because I no longer feel the need to abandon myself to make anyone else accept me, I can stay grounded and centered even when I'm faced with risk. 

Nature is always changing, always evolving, yet there are some things that remain. The mountains stand tall, anchored and resilient. Water will continue to flow - redirecting its path, but creating change over time. And the trees will continue to root down, while reaching higher, letting go when necessary. 

Finally, after years of striving to be "enough," my leadership reflects this cycle. My business is rooted in steadiness and clarity, and I'm more anchored in every relationship as a mom, wife, and friend.

This is the source of transformation. This is the root of authenticity.

If you've read this far - thank you. I'd love to understand: Where in your life or leadership have you been performing, and what might be possible if you came back to yourself instead?

I am grateful for your presence and excited to continue this journey of Leading with VOICCE® with you!

With gratitude, Tian.

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