The Weight of Leadership and the Power of Honest Conversations

Introduction

Hi there, it’s Georg, back with another entry in my logbook. Today, I’m feeling the weight of leadership a bit more than usual. The constant pressure to keep everything moving forward can be exhausting. Balancing the needs and expectations of team members, shareholders, clients, and partners feels like a never-ending juggling act. But amidst the challenges, there are also moments of excitement and optimism that keep the passion alive. Let me walk you through the highs and lows of today.

The Strain of Keeping Everything Afloat

Today, I’ve been feeling the burden of being the person who has to keep the energy high and the wheels turning. It’s not just about managing tasks—it’s about steering the ship in the right direction while ensuring that no one falls overboard. This role often involves balancing complex relationships, and that can be tough.

For example, there are times when I walk into a room during a break, and the conversation goes silent. It leaves me wondering if I should be doing more to connect with the team, even though I’m already handling a lot of other responsibilities. Don’t get me wrong—the team is fantastic, and we genuinely like each other. But on hard days, especially when tough decisions need to be made, my role can be isolating.

New Productions and Keeping the Passion Alive

On a more positive note, we’re planning some exciting new productions that have really captured the team’s focus. These projects are the kind that reignite our passion for what we do, and I’m thrilled to see where they’ll take us over the next few quarters. It’s this kind of work that keeps the fire burning, not just for the team, but for me as well. I’m feeling optimistic about what we can achieve together.

The Rollercoaster of Wins and Losses

Of course, not every day goes as planned. Today, we lost a deal because our main contact at the client changed, which was a bit of a blow. But in this line of work, there’s always a flip side. Shortly after, we landed a lucrative deal that made the day feel a bit more balanced. This constant back-and-forth is what makes the job unpredictable..

The Importance of Energy, Feedback, and Honest Conversations

One thing I’ve realized is how crucial it is to show up with energy and enthusiasm for change. The team feeds off that energy, and it’s my job to provide it. Encouraging autonomy and providing regular feedback are key to making sure we’re solving the right problems and achieving the outcomes we want. It’s something I need to keep at the forefront of my mind, even on days when the energy isn’t naturally there.

As I wrap up the day, I’m heading to a networking event. Earlier, a client mentioned that they were leaning towards a competitor because they seemed like the safer choice. Instead of letting that slide, I asked them straight up, “What do I have to do to get back into the selection pool?” That kind of honesty can be a game changer. It certainly was today—it opened the door for a renegotiation over a beer later. So, wish me luck!

Conclusion

That’s it for today. The constant balancing act of leadership can be exhausting, but it’s also filled with moments of excitement, growth, and even unexpected wins. If anything I’ve shared resonates with you, or if you’ve had similar experiences, I’d love to hear from you. Feel free to reach out—I’m always up for a conversation. Thanks for listening, and take care until next time.

George