The question is: Which part of our history is calling the shots?
So many leadership challenges aren’t really about skills; they’re about patterns.
It’s something I recognize instantly, in my clients and in my own reactions as an executive. Things like:
- Tripping up or shutting down under pressure
- Pushing back hard on feedback
- Going quiet when conflict flares
- Micromanaging work
- Seeking praise
When leaders react strongly in certain situations, such as with defensiveness, withdrawal, or an urgency to please, those reactions are usually much less about work. They more likely stem from unconscious patterns shaped in early life that are further deepened in the workplace.
And guess what, leaders?
Those patterns don’t vanish when we get promoted. In fact, they often surface more powerfully under stress. This is why understanding our patterns – how we see ourselves and the world – is so important to being effective at work.
Curious what patterns might be shaping your leadership? Start by paying attention to where you feel most reactive. That’s when the deeper work can begin.
At Percepta Leadership, we work with leaders who are striving to grow not just in skill, but in self-awareness.
One of the biggest insights of self-awareness? Leadership challenges often have roots far beyond the workplace.
This is why we focus on more than tactics.
We provide psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychodynamic coaching, because we know how powerful these approaches are in helping leaders explore what’s underneath their responses and behaviours.
Feel free to connect with us on LinkedIn with any questions, inquiries, or book a free discovery call.
