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Three Ways to Manage Leadership Expectations

Over the past few months, we have delved into Brené Brown’s insights on emotions as outlined in her book, Atlas of the Heart, with a specific emphasis on understanding their impact on women’s leadership. We’ve examined uncertainty and comparison. This month, we’re turning our attention to the intricate dynamics of expectations.

According to Brown, unmet expectations often give rise to a range of emotions, including disappointment, regret, discouragement, resignation, and frustration. She categorizes expectations into two main types: those that are unexamined and unexpressed, and those that are consciously acknowledged. Both types have the potential to significantly influence our leadership trajectories if left unaddressed.

To navigate this terrain effectively, consider the following steps:

Emotions and Leadership: Dealing with Uncertainty

Over the past few years I have become interested in the work of Brene Brown, a researcher and author, most known for her work on vulnerability and courage. In her most recent book, Atlas of the Heart, she digs into the realm of emotions. There she explores and describes the experiences that, in her words, “Define what it means to be human.” Over the next few months, I will share with you some of Brown’s work on emotions, specifically in relationship to leadership and our ability to lead from a place of health.

So, let’s begin with uncertainty, a part of life we can’t escape.

Self-Awareness

When you hear the expression self-awareness, how do you react? What thoughts, feelings, and emotions do you have? Take a moment to think about this.

Just answering those questions is a step towards self-awareness. A definition of self-awareness is the ability to tune in to your feelings, thoughts, and actions. Another definition is a conscious knowledge of one’s own character, feelings, desires, and motivations. Your response to these questions also communicates how open you are to having self-awareness.

Control

“I really don’t like people.” The words stung and caught my attention, even as I laughed. The conversation was between myself and a person I had just met. It immediately brought judgment, but not possibly in the way you might think. It wasn’t the other person who was making the statement. It was me. I was the one who found myself admitting that out loud.

As I heard the words come from my mouth, I realized how sad it was that I truly felt that way. As I listened to myself, it was like God smacking me in the face and saying, “How can you serve my people if you don’t like them?” Pow!!