Where are you right now?

Score yourself on the States of Mind scale. Be honest, and don't round up.

Above the line or below it?

Everybody goes below the line. The skill is noticing, and coming back.

Your team reads your face first.

When your words and your expression don't match, people believe your expression. Check in on what you're showing.

What's pulling you below the line?

Name the trigger in a few words Take a pause

Start

5

Why a pause works

Under threat, the amygdala sets off the stress response before your prefrontal cortex has processed anything. That's why you react before you decide.

A slow exhale activates the vagus nerve, which lowers your heart rate and returns blood flow to the prefrontal cortex. Cortisol falls, and you get your judgment back.

Naming sensory detail keeps the thinking brain busy, which interrupts the rumination loop.

Now choose your response

Which behavior does this moment need?

The six behaviors of the leader you are at your best.

I am not the parent. I am the guide.

Rescuing creates dependence. Guiding leaves your team member able to take the next step.

Another example

My readiness next steps

My team needs me to be the kind of leader who… One behavior I'm practicing One pause practice I'll actually use One conversation this month: who, and when Save my next steps

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