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What happens when the version of success you've been told to follow no longer fits who you really are? Chris Blount faced this question head-on, making the brave choice to honor his authentic self by leaving behind security for something unknown but true.
Our lives are shaped by countless messages about who we "should" be – from parents, community members, and even strangers. These influences create stories and narratives about our identity that aren't capital-T True but built on the lens of our experiences. Shifting perspective and gaining new insights can reshape these beliefs, transforming how we see ourselves and others.
Leadership transitions don't always require leaving a corporate role. They occur when taking on highly visible projects, being promoted to lead former peers, or facing unexpected reassignments. In these moments, we're forced to ask ourselves what Chris pondered: "Who am I and who do I choose to be?" Strong leaders recognize mental health as foundational to performance, challenge limiting beliefs, and reframe inner narratives. They understand the Johari window – addressing both blind spots (what others know about you that you don't) and the masks we wear (what we know but hide from others).
The mark of resilience isn't avoiding failure but getting back up when knocked down. As Chris shared after his studio was robbed of $10,000 worth of equipment: "I would never have been able to get to this point if I had given up." Leadership demands recovering from setbacks, making tough decisions, and recognizing that while choices always exist, you may not like all the consequences that follow.
Your challenge: Identify one area where you or a team member is out of alignment with core values. Within the next month, make a clear move to change it, even if it is uncomfortable. Remember that leadership isn't defined by others' rules but by how you choose to show up and the changes you make along your journey.
Subscribe now to continue exploring how to integrate who you are with how you lead, and share this episode with someone who might benefit from hearing Chris' powerful story of transformation.

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