The lonely walk. … As a leader you have expectations set upon you and outcomes that must be measured. In the same breath you must be mindful of “how” you are received in a room. Rarely do people talk about what you’ve said, but more so how you said it. You can buildout strategy, create data buckets, and show up with best intentions but your biggest rubric as a leader is perception. In essence you’re shadowboxing as you build and manage relationships within a 360° sphere. A mentor told me years ago, regardless of how friendly you try to be as a leader—you will rarely be received as a friend. Hence the lonely walk. … This is not a tale of worry but one of building your leadership acumen. Combat imposter syndrome by being true to yourself. Do not take or cause offense within professional exchanges. The Socratic approach is the best way to build trust and manage your emotions. Remember, it is the “Art” of engagement. Asking questions, listening mindfully, and dispassionately eschewing your own ego leads to better outcomes. You got this. Be well.

President Cotton, but please, call me Henry