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April: Spring Energy Check-In

4/14/2025

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As the days get longer and the earth starts to soften, spring reminds us that renewal isn’t just about doing more—it’s about doing what matters.

But here’s the truth: renewal doesn’t happen automatically. It requires intention. It requires awareness. And sometimes, it means facing where we’re depleted before we can truly bloom.

I’ve felt this deeply myself. A few weeks ago, I found myself powering through—back-to-back meetings, late-night emails, juggling all the “shoulds.” On paper, everything looked fine. But inside? I felt disconnected from the very why that fuels me.

It wasn’t burnout exactly. It was that subtle, sneaky misalignment that creeps in when we’re so focused on doing that we forget to be.

One morning, I paused—just long enough to sit with a cup of coffee and a journal—and asked: Where is my energy actually going? And is it aligned with what I care about most? That simple moment of reflection gave me clarity. Not a full life overhaul, just a small shift: fewer yeses out of obligation, more space for quiet, for family, for creativity. And with that, my energy began to return—not from doing more, but from doing what mattered most to me.

So often, we push through exhaustion, overwhelm, or misalignment because it feels easier to keep going than to pause and ask the hard questions. But sustainable growth starts by checking in—with ourselves, our energy, and what we actually want to carry into this season.

3 Ways to Reset Your Energy  This Spring
Notice the Leaks: Where is your energy going lately? Are you saying yes when you mean no? Are you overthinking, people-pleasing, or staying quiet when your truth wants to speak? Awareness is the first step to change.

Shift the Story: Energy isn’t just physical—it’s emotional and mental. A limiting belief can drain you faster than a packed calendar. Try this reframe:

“What’s the opportunity here for me to grow, learn, or let go?”

Make One Powerful Shift: You don’t need a full reset—just one intentional pivot. That might mean taking something off your plate, asking for support, or returning to a habit that fuels you.

This Month’s Challenge: Reclaim Your Energy
Pick one area of your life—work, home, relationships, creativity—where your energy feels off. Then ask:
  • Where am I feeling drained?
  • What boundary, truth, or reset do I need?
  • What would it look like to protect my energy here?

Now, take one small, intentional step. You don’t need to bloom overnight—just root into your truth and start there.

Word of the Month: RENEWAL
​
Renewal isn’t just about starting over—it’s about coming back to yourself.
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March: A Month of Transitions & Transformation

3/17/2025

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Carrie Simmons holding a four leaf clover
As winter thaws into spring, we’re reminded that change isn’t always easy—it can be messy, uncomfortable, and even a little scary. But here’s the thing: discomfort is where growth lives.

So often, we hold ourselves back because it feels safer to stay where we are. But if you want to grow, evolve, and truly unleash your brilliance, you need to get comfortable with being uncomfortable.

Think about it—every major life shift, every transformative moment, is marked by discomfort. The awkward first step. The uneasy in-between. The moments of doubt. But what lies on the other side? Strength. Confidence. Fulfillment.

💡 3 Ways to Embrace Discomfort & Grow Through It:
  1. Reframe Fear as Fuel: Fear isn’t a stop sign—it’s a signal that you’re on the brink of something meaningful. Growth doesn’t come from what’s easy; it comes from pushing your boundaries.
  2. Celebrate Small Wins: Big changes are built on tiny, consistent steps. Whether it’s having a tough conversation, setting a boundary, or simply showing up when it’s hard—every step forward counts.
  3. Lean Into What’s Working: It’s easy to focus on what’s not going right, but growth thrives where energy flows. Notice what’s working in your life right now. Double down on it. Build momentum from your strengths.

🌟 This Month’s Challenge: Get Uncomfortable.Pick one area of your life—personal, professional, or emotional—where you’ve been playing it safe. Then ask yourself:
  • What’s the next brave step I can take here?
  • What am I avoiding because it feels uncomfortable?
  • What would it look like if I did it anyway?
Now, take that step. It doesn’t have to be huge—just intentional. Because small acts of courage create lasting transformation.

This March, let discomfort be your greatest teacher. 🌱✨

Word of the Month: BRAVERY
​
Bravery isn’t the absence of fear—it’s the decision to move forward despite it.

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A Leader's Guide to Managing Team Emotions

8/21/2024

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Cultivating a thriving team culture
Leading teams can be incredibly rewarding, yet it comes with its unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to managing emotions and fostering a supportive culture. As a leader, I've strived to create an open-door policy and a safe space for my team members, ensuring they feel heard and valued. However, balancing this with self-care and maintaining personal boundaries can be tough. Here’s how I navigate this complex landscape and ensure both my team and I thrive.

Building a Supportive Culture
  1. Open-Door Policy: One of the cornerstones of a supportive culture is an open-door policy. This means being available for team members to express their concerns, ideas, and feedback. It fosters transparency and trust, making team members feel valued and respected.
  2. Safe Space: Creating a safe space involves more than just being available. It's about ensuring team members feel secure in expressing their thoughts without fear of judgment or repercussions. This encourages open communication and helps in addressing issues before they escalate.
  3. Empathy and Understanding: Leading with empathy is crucial. Understanding that everyone has their unique challenges and emotions allows you to respond appropriately and provide the necessary support. It’s about being patient and offering a listening ear.
  4. Regular Check-Ins: Regular one-on-one meetings with team members can help in understanding their emotional state and workload. These check-ins can be informal, creating a relaxed atmosphere where team members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts.
  5. Encouraging Collaboration: Promote a culture of collaboration where team members support each other. This not only fosters teamwork but also creates a sense of community, reducing feelings of isolation and stress.
While it’s essential to be there for your team, it's equally important to take care of yourself. As a leader, your well-being directly impacts your ability to lead effectively. Here are some strategies I employ to maintain this balance:
  • Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. This helps in preventing burnout and ensures you have time to recharge. Communicate these boundaries to your team to manage expectations.
  • Delegate Tasks: Trust your team and delegate tasks appropriately. This not only empowers team members but also reduces your workload, allowing you to focus on strategic aspects of leadership.
  • Seek Support: Just as your team looks to you for support, you should also have a support system. Whether it’s a mentor, a coach, or a peer, having someone to discuss challenges and seek advice from can be incredibly beneficial.
  • Self-Care Practices: Incorporate self-care practices into your routine. This could be anything from regular exercise, meditation, or simply taking time to pursue hobbies. These activities help in reducing stress and improving overall well-being.
  • Continuous Learning: Invest in personal and professional development. Reading books like 'Dare to Lead' by Brené Brown has been inspiring and provided valuable insights into balancing leadership and self-care. Continuous learning keeps you motivated and better equipped to handle challenges.
When implementing changes to foster a supportive culture, clear communication is vital. Here’s how I approach this:
  • Transparency: Be transparent about the changes you’re making and why they’re important. Explain how these changes will benefit the team and the overall work environment.
  • Involvement: Involve your team in the process. Seek their input and feedback, making them feel part of the change rather than just subjects of it. This increases buy-in and ensures the changes are well-received.
  • Supportive Language: Use supportive and positive language when communicating changes. Emphasize your commitment to their well-being and how the changes are aimed at creating a better work environment.
  • Reinforcement: Regularly reinforce the changes and remind the team of their importance. Acknowledge their efforts in adapting to the new culture and provide ongoing support.
Leading teams and managing emotions is a delicate balance of being available and supportive while also taking care of yourself. By fostering an open, empathetic, and collaborative culture, and maintaining clear boundaries for self-care, you can create a thriving work environment for your team and yourself. Remember, a healthy leader leads a healthy team. Your well-being is just as important as that of your team, and by taking care of yourself, you’re setting a positive example for them to follow.

This is a work in progress, and it’s not always going to be easy. Taking one small step at a time is progress, and every effort counts toward building a supportive and healthy team dynamic.
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Embodying Leadership Values for a Thriving Workplace

7/17/2024

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Walk the Talk
Leadership is not just about giving orders or setting expectations; it's about leading by example. One of the most powerful ways leaders can do this is by "walking the talk." But what does that really mean?

For me, walking the talk in leadership means more than just verbalizing values or espousing lofty ideals. It's about embodying those values in our everyday actions and decisions. It's about developing a human-centered workplace where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best.

Here are a few key
aspects of what it means for leaders to walk the talk:

Authenticity
Leaders who walk the talk are authentic in their words and actions. They don't just talk about values like integrity, respect, and accountability; they demonstrate them consistently in their interactions with others. Authenticity builds trust and credibility, making it easier for team members to align with the leader's vision and goals.

Accountability
Walking the talk also means holding oneself accountable for one's actions. Leaders take responsibility for their decisions and behaviors, acknowledging when they fall short and taking steps to make things right. This accountability fosters a culture of transparency and honesty, encouraging team members to also take ownership of their work and actions.

Empathy
Leaders who walk the talk cultivate empathy and understanding towards others. They take the time to listen to their team members, understand their perspectives, and address their concerns with compassion and sensitivity. Empathy strengthens relationships and enhances collaboration, creating a supportive and inclusive workplace environment.

Integrity
Integrity is at the core of walking the talk. Leaders uphold ethical standards and principles in all aspects of their work, even when faced with difficult choices or challenges. By consistently demonstrating integrity, leaders set a strong moral example for their teams, fostering a culture of ethical behavior and mutual respect.

Inclusivity
In today's diverse workplace, inclusivity is essential for effective leadership. Leaders who walk the talk promote a culture of inclusion where every voice is heard and valued, regardless of background or identity. Inclusivity drives innovation and creativity, as diverse perspectives lead to more comprehensive problem-solving and decision-making.

Walking the talk in leadership means more than just talking about values—it means embodying those values in our actions and decisions. By leading with authenticity, accountability, empathy, integrity, and inclusivity, we can create workplaces where everyone thrives. When leaders consistently walk the talk, they unleash the brilliance of their teams, driving sustained success and making a lasting impact.
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    Professional headshot of Carrie Simmons, founder of Brilliance Unleashed
    Unleash the life and leadership that light you up. Carrie Simmons, helps leaders reset, realign, and rise with purpose through coaching, strategy, and a spark of brilliance. Let’s create magic.​
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