By now, you probably know that my mission is pretty simple: I help high-achieving people live and lead with intention – by choice, not by chance. In my speaking, facilitating, and coaching, I often use metaphors and personal stories to make my point.
So I couldn’t let a good eclipse go to waste, right?
When the moon eclipsed the sun – could be a metaphor for life and leadership.
I’ve always believed that nature is such a great teacher. Here are some parallels that I picked up from the eclipse that could help us all to be more intentional.
- Embrace the power of alignment.
Just as the moon aligns perfectly with the sun during an eclipse, effective leadership requires alignment of vision, values, and actions.
This is a biggie for me. I’ve worked with countless clients who wonder why they’re so unfulfilled and disconnected from their work. And when we get down to identifying their core values, or as I like to say, when they “name their non-negotiables,” they realize that their personal values aren’t in alignment with the organization or team.
For you to bring your best self to your work, you’ve got to be in sync with who you are and what you believe is important. Cos here’s the thing… otherwise, you’ll always feel like you’re slogging through life. #askmehowIknow
Get really clear on your core values and then do work that allows you to live and express those values.
- Please, for the love of all that’s holy, let go of the quest for work/life balance!
During an eclipse, the sun, moon, and earth are in perfect balance. Ah, so beautiful. And how long did that balance last? Approximately 3 1/2 to 4 minutes. FOUR minutes. That’s it.
As I’ve said, nature is the ultimate teacher. Perfect balance between work and “life” is an illusion and too many people are stressing themselves out trying to attain that balance. And if you do miraculously attain it at 10:00 AM on a Tuesday, just how long do you think you can maintain it?
Stop. It.
Acknowledge and accept that you’ll have seasons where you’re off-balance, leaning into family responsibilities, and you’ll have other seasons where you’re off-balance, focusing on your professional or career interests.
Rant over. For now.
- Be authentic and transparent.
When the sun is temporarily blocked during an eclipse, what do we see? The raw beauty of the corona – the pearly glow that surrounds the sun. That’s authenticity shining through.
Transparency builds trust faster than you can say “eclipse,” and trust is the foundation of every one of your relationships – especially in your leadership role.
So ditch the mask. Admit your shortcomings and be real. Anyway, people can spot a phony baloney a mile away.
- Learn to expect and embrace chaos, commotion, and change.
Eclipses are all about transformation – a moment of darkness before the light.
So many people that I’ve talked to are going through change and challenge. And if that’s you, heed the words of my mama: “If you’re going through hell, keep going!” Don’t stop now.
And if you’re open to it, you may just find that you’re stronger and more resilient on the other side.
- Reflect and shine on.
Just like the moon reflecting the sun’s light, you need to take a moment to reflect on your own brilliance.
Set aside some time for introspection. On. The. Regular. What’s working, what’s not, what could you do differently? Clients who work with me – whether individually or as a team – say that this practice alone has moved the needle massively for them.
Shine a light on your strengths, your wins, and your tenacity. You’re doing an amazing job, and you deserve to celebrate!
The metaphor of the eclipse serves as a powerful reminder for us all to live and lead with intention. If you or your team is struggling, and you’d like a guide on the side let’s talk. I’d love to help you filter through the chaos so you can gain clarity and show up as your best self in all parts of your life. You don’t have to go it alone!
You might also like:
What Does Your Big Fat “But” Look Like?
Lead Yourself and Your Team Out of the Land of Stuck
Jennifer Ledet, CSP, is a leadership consultant and professional speaker (with a hint of Cajun flavor) who equips leaders from the boardroom to the mailroom to improve employee engagement, teamwork, and communication. In her customized programs, leadership retreats, keynote presentations, and breakout sessions, she guides leaders to live and lead by choice, not chance.
Photo by Fernando Makoto
