From patrolling to noticing

Early-stage leaders stay sharp by mentally patrolling for what might go wrong: the missed risk, the off tone, the unspoken tension. It’s how they keep things safe.

But over time, when your mind is wired to hunt it finds danger even in calm rooms. You stop reading what’s there and start reading for threat both real and imagined.

Mature leadership isn’t about dulling your awareness; it’s about widening it.

Noticing is the next step up from patrolling. It engages the pre-frontal cortex: the part of the brain that regulates, synthesises and connects. Less limbic, more relational. It swaps vigilance for perspective and context.

Try this:

1. Name what’s neutral. Balance your risk radar by spotting what’s working first.

2. Ask yourself “what else could this be?” Curiosity interrupts threat stories.

3. Let your system breathe. One full breath before you speak moves you from reaction to response.

Great leaders don’t lose their edge, they refine their filter.

Until next week,

Madeleine

PS If you’d like me to work with you as you navigate senior leadership, let me know and please share with anyone you think may benefit.

I help accomplished professionals untangle difficult career questions so they can thrive in work and life.

1. Want to find out more? Send me a note and let me know.

2. Feeling unfulfilled, overworked or unclear about what next? Work with me to identify what is holding you back and make a plan for more powerfully and enjoyably pursuing goals that matter to you. Contact me to find out more.

3. Join my list to receive regular articles and insights, early news about programs and offers, and respect for your inbox.

4. Follow me on LinkedIn to stay connected.

5. Prefer to talk? Choose a time and it will drop right into my schedule.

Click below to share this on your socials…