𝐎𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫

When leaders begin working with the Leadership Circle Profile, most start by reducing Reactive tendencies. And that’s a smart first move.

Patterns like Controlling, Protecting, or Complying create drag. They cancel out our best efforts. Letting go of those patterns frees up energy and possibility.

But reducing the Reactive is only half the story.

The real shift comes when leaders strengthen their Creative capacity—especially two core muscles: Relating and Achieving.

I often use the image of a solo rower to bring this to life.

🔹 Authenticity is the seat. It grounds the rower with presence, stability, and values.

🔹 Self-Awareness is the inner state. Are they pushing too hard? Coasting? In rhythm with themselves?

🔹 Systems Awareness is the water, wind, current, and competition. Can they read the external conditions and respond with skill?

And the oars?

That’s 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠.

Relating is how we connect, influence, and build trust.

Achieving is how we focus, commit, and deliver.

They’re where energy meets intention.

You can be grounded and aware, but without both oars in the water, you’re not going anywhere.

You’ll lag behind, drift off course, or burn out pulling hard on only one side.

Relating without Achieving lacks purposeful action.

Achieving without Relating lacks alignment and leverage.

But when you pull with balance and strength - when each stroke is deep and intentional - that’s when leadership begins to flow.

Reactive patterns may slow you down.

But Creative leadership is what gets you moving.