Has a Boss... Ever Made You Cry?

You’re not alone.

I learned a lot early in my career. 

Not only from great leaders but also from watching people (co-workers & clients) and learning from them "what not to do"!

One boss was especially vicious, actually.

Any time things got tough, he’d deflect the blame and put the spotlight and pressure on someone else on our team.

I was reprimanded once for using an employee’s nickname, "JJ" during his performance review instead of his actual name, James. Why?

My boss secretly dialed into one of my remote team calls (without announcing himself), only to later tear apart most of what I said during the review. No leadership lesson. No empowerment. No kindness. No trust.

Reluctantly, I did stay with that job until I built up the confidence to leave.

Fortunately, my next job was with a team and leaders that better aligned with my values.

Here’s what I learned from that situation and from this week’s podcast guest.

Shelley Williams is a powerhouse who proves you can lead with both vision and heart:

She believes, "Kindness and effectiveness are not mutually exclusive."

• You Don’t Have To Choose Between Results And Relationships.
• You Don’t Have To Sacrifice Values To Lead.
• Being Kind Doesn’t Make You Soft, It Can Make You Unforgettable.

Major Takeaways

• Kindness is strength.
• Lead with intention, not just intensity.
• Celebrate those who lead the right way.

Are you protecting your team’s blind side?

Shelley shared a powerful leadership metaphor.

"It’s not about being the quarterback—it’s about protecting the blind side." 

They not only support the top performers, they also recognize & support the quiet contributors, lifting the often overlooked.

Great leaders aren't just in the spotlight, they are watching the edges.

We all want leadership that has our back.

And we should want to be that person for someone else.

Additional Takeaways:

• A new way to see leadership: Protection, Inclusion, Awareness
• Ask yourself: Who haven’t I checked in on lately?
• Lead with heart.

Most of us remember the leaders who pushed us and protected us. Who challenged us and who cared.

Most people don’t… but Shelley does. And maybe you do, too.

If this hit home for you, I’d love to hear about the kindest leader you ever had or the kind leader you’ve become.

If you want to hear the full conversation with Shelly Williams, listen to the Most People Don’t ...but YOU Do! podcast.

Every week I have conversations with successful leaders that share powerful stories, practical insights, and motivational lessons to help you lead better and enjoy a more meaningful and impactful life.

You can find the podcast on all major platforms like Apple, Spotify, and my website, mostpeopledont.com.

Don't miss out on the chance to be inspired and empowered!

It’s another great one. 🎧