3 uncomfortable truths about leadership I wish someone had told me sooner.
I've been leading teams for years now.
And I've made every mistake in the book.
I've stayed up nights wondering why things weren't working.
Here's what I've learned the hard way:
1. Leadership is deeply lonely.
No one prepares you for the isolation.
You carry burdens you can't share.
You make decisions that aren't popular.
Sometimes your team goes home happy while you stay up worrying.
The fix? Find your people - other leaders who get it.
I meet with my leadership circle monthly.
We share, we vent, we support.
It's been my lifeline.
2. You will disappoint people. Constantly.
Your decisions will hurt someone.
Your priorities will frustrate others.
Your attention will never be enough for everyone.
I used to try to please everyone.
Now I focus on being fair & transparent instead.
I explain my "why" even when it's hard.
I've learned disappointment doesn't equal failure.
3. Your personal growth becomes everyone's business.
Your unresolved issues will show up in your leadership.
Your triggers will affect your team.
Your blind spots will create organizational problems.
This was the hardest truth for me.
I had to face parts of myself I'd been avoiding.
I started therapy.
I got a coach.
I asked for feedback I didn't want to hear.
Leadership isn't just about strategy & execution.
It's about becoming the person who can carry the weight.
It's about growing faster than you thought possible.
It's about serving others even when it hurts.
What leadership truth hit you hardest?