Shake it out

2026-03-03

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Summary: I’m currently taking an improv class, and it has highlighted a major leadership blind spot: the leftover vibe. In improv, if you carry the "stiffness" of a bad day onto the stage, the scene fails. Leadership is no different. We play many roles—the efficient delegator, the empathetic coach, the bold visionary. These aren't masks; they are authentic "costumes" we wear to meet the moment. But if you don't "shake out" the energy of a budget crisis before walking into a sensitive one-on-one, your team fee...

Summary:

I’m currently taking an improv class, and it has highlighted a major leadership blind spot: the leftover vibe. In improv, if you carry the "stiffness" of a bad day onto the stage, the scene fails. Leadership is no different.

We play many roles—the efficient delegator, the empathetic coach, the bold visionary. These aren't masks; they are authentic "costumes" we wear to meet the moment. But if you don't "shake out" the energy of a budget crisis before walking into a sensitive one-on-one, your team feels that residue. This episode is about the power of the 30-second transition and why your energy speaks louder than your words.

Takeaways

Energy is Pre-Planned: Just like an improviser chooses a vibration for a scene, you can consciously choose the energy you bring into a room.
The Hazard of Residue: Carrying stress from one meeting to the next isn't just a personal burden; it’s a "vibe-killer" for your team that prevents real connection.
Costumes vs. Masks: Adapting your energy for different leadership roles is an act of respect and intentionality, not a lack of authenticity.
The 30-Second Reset: Before your next call, literally "shake it out." Take half a minute to shed the previous meeting so you can show up fully for the person in front of you.

Good Vibes to Go: For those of you into HGTV-type shows, check out Homegrown on HBO. Hosted by urban farmer Jamila Norman, it’s a joyful, grounding series that helps families transform their yards into thriving food gardens while celebrating Black agricultural traditions and food justice. We love this show!

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