Reflections of Leadership: Presence Over Intention

Tue, Jan 06, 2026

I took a break from studying over the holiday and watched some of the Star Wars series. One phrase from Yoda stuck with me:

“Do or do not. There is no try.”

In leadership, I’ve always believed in being fully present — not on a phone, not on a computer, not somewhere else entirely when engaging with my staff.

I wasn’t always successful.

There were times I was distracted by my own problems, not paying attention when I needed to be.

Over time, leadership taught me this isn’t really about effort.

It’s about presence.

When people depend on you, there isn’t much room for halfway.

You’re either listening, or you’re not.

You’re either available when it’s uncomfortable, or you aren’t.

Trying can feel sincere.

Consistency is what people trust.

Experience doesn’t remove uncertainty.

It changes how you show up when others are counting on you.