This week I struggled coming up with a polished leadership insight… just a reminder that done is often kinder (and braver) than perfect.

When your brain is wired to patrol for what might go wrong, it starts seeing danger everywhere - even in calm rooms.
Mature leadership isn’t about dulling awareness; it’s about widening it. Here’s how to shift from patrolling for threat to noticing what’s real

There’s no such thing as neutral leadership. Your nervous system is always broadcasting. A disconnect between your words and your body erodes trust. Here’s why, and what to do instead.

Best practice can be a useful yardstick, but it’s also yesterday’s answer. Stronger leaders ask what’s right for here and now.

If you want to know a leader’s real priorities, don’t read their strategy… look at their calendar. Your calendar is your culture

Brevity builds confidence, true… but sometimes the detail is the message. The real leadership skill is knowing which one the moment calls for…

At senior levels, over-explaining erodes confidence. Try this instead…

Consistency builds trust. But the bravest leaders know when to change their mind — and why it builds credibility, not weakness.

“Lazy” is often seen as a flaw. But what if a little laziness is actually the secret to effective leadership?

Being trusted as a leader takes more than good intent or credibility. Inside teams, trust is shaped by how you show up, what you prioritise, and what you are willing to say out loud, even when it feels uncomfortable.

Many senior professionals - especially lawyers - take pride in being a trusted advisor. But when you step into a leadership role, the equation shifts. You’re not just valued for your judgment. You’re relied on for your presence, clarity, and ability to bring others with you.

Most high performers think of rest as something they’ll get to after the work is done. But neuroscience shows that recovery isn’t the reward for performance; it’s the prerequisite.
When we’re under-recovered, the very parts of the brain that handle judgement, emotional regulation and perspective shut down. If you’re leading from a tired brain, you’re flying without the tools you need most.

Many experienced leaders want to “do the work” and stay above the politics. But once you’re at the table, presence isn’t optional. It’s part of the job and the lever for influence.

When being good at work stops helping you - and starts holding you back. A reflection on how real leadership sometimes means letting go of doing things right.

Whether you’re aware of it or not, you have a reputation. Here’s why your reputation affects your ability and impact as a leader, and 3 tips for shifting a reputation that’s not where you want it

As a leader, you’re only human – you will have highs and lows just like everyone. But your impact is outsized – so be aware and take care to adjust accordingly – especially when you’re busy!

I had an interesting discussion with a client today around the value of being consistent as a leader. It’s great until it’s not… here’s why.

As partners in professional services firms contemplate retiring from the firm, it's crucial to consider more than just financial aspects.

Here’s some things to think about as you move into the next phase of your career and life

Isn’t it great when someone poses a ridiculous idea in a meeting?! How do you challenge them without starting a fight?

Here are six simple tips for effectively challenging others in a meeting, fostering healthy debate and driving better outcomes.

I don’t love the term “personal brand” (I prefer reputation), but whatever you call it,

I want to share a process that can help you think it through in a structured way.