The uncomfortable decisions are the most defining

“Update the notes.”

That’s what she told a senior department head who asked her to fudge a deadline so his report wouldn’t look late to the rest of the front office.

Most new staffers would’ve flinched and folded.

She didn’t.

She was 22.

An unpaid seasonal intern.

Managing four calendars.

Also prepping for back-to-back home games.

And coordinating her actual responsibilities.

And yet, her standards never fell asleep.

This kind of mental resilience?

It doesn’t come from motivational quotes.

It’s built.

Repped.

Practiced.

Owned.

I’ve coached many other rising leaders through similar “prove it” moments.

Not when the spotlight’s on.

But in the quiet grind.

When NO ONE IS WATCHING.

Or cares.

One client called it their “line in the sand” moment:

The day they stopped people-pleasing.

Because they realized leadership isn’t about being liked.

It’s about being clear.

Clear on your mission.

Clear on your values.

Clear on your standards.

That’s when everything changes.

If you’re in a leadership role and tired of second-guessing your instincts, then hit reset.

And start following them again.

Ready to draw your own line in the sand?

Book a free leadership clarity call.

Your standards shouldn’t wait.