Recently, I’ve been exploring the dynamics of masculine and feminine energy in leadership, alongside the importance of acknowledging emotions. If you’ve been following my journey, you know that I’m committed to building a strong foundation for mental health. And at the core of that foundation lies grit.
Grit is what keeps us going when faced with life’s toughest challenges. It’s the resilience to persevere, even when the urge to give up is strong. Grit isn’t just about toughness; it’s about being honest with ourselves and tapping into both masculine and feminine energies.
I recently took on the challenge of co-authoring a 200-page book. It was a daunting task, considering I had no prior experience. Wrestling with imposter syndrome and moments of doubt, I contributed to half of the book’s content. Through this process, I learned that grit and emotions are deeply intertwined.
In our inaugural Mission Ready podcast episode, my co-author Brenda and I shared how we met at a funeral. Brenda exemplifies grit in action. Despite life’s challenges, she keeps moving forward, rarely showing vulnerability. Witnessing her resilience over the years has been inspiring.
Leadership requires a balance of masculine and feminine energies. Strong women often draw upon masculine energy to navigate challenges while embracing their emotional depth. On the other hand, men are often conditioned to suppress emotions, relying solely on masculine energy to power through tough times.
However, this imbalance can lead to discomfort when faced with emotional displays, especially from women, in professional settings. Men, burdened by societal expectations, may struggle to relate to or empathize with these expressions.
Embracing grit isn’t about conforming to rigid gender norms; it’s about embracing the full spectrum of human experience. True grit requires vulnerability, strength, and authenticity. By acknowledging and balancing both masculine and feminine energies, we unlock our true potential as leaders.
As we navigate the complexities of leadership, let’s remember that true strength lies in embracing our humanity fully. By nurturing grit and emotional intelligence, we can cultivate resilient leaders who inspire positive change.
