Shake it out

MAR 3, 202610 MIN
Good Vibes Leadership with Bernadette Smith

Shake it out

MAR 3, 202610 MIN

Description

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! Connect with Me The Newsletter: This week in the newsletter, I wrote about trash bags turned into duffels, protest songs turned into $600,000, classrooms turning fast fashion on its head, courtrooms redefining family, a global vote affirming who counts, and more! Subscribe to the 5 Things Newsletter here.  Work with Me: Let’s talk. Watch 5 Things on YouTube. Join thousands of readers by subscribing to the 5 Things newsletter. Enjoy some good vibes every Saturday morning. https://5thingsdei.com/