I Almost Took You For Granted!

Recently, I had the opportunity to present at a national conference out of state. I was in the conference room, prepping for my session, thinking through how I was going to get the room set up in time, materials placed, chairs adjusted, and all the behind-the-scenes details managed in the time slot provided between sessions. That familiar “go mode” was kicking in.

Just as I was wondering how I’d juggle it all, a woman stepped into the room and said, “Hi! I’ve been assigned to help you. Is there anything you need help with?”  Without missing a beat, I responded with a big smile and said, “GREAT! Here’s what I need…” and began listing off tasks. She got to work immediately—gracious and willing.

But a few minutes in, something tugged at me:

I hadn’t even asked her name.I hadn’t thanked her for being there and volunteering to help.I hadn’t taken a breath or pause to just connect.  I had been so focused on what I needed to get done, I had completely bypassed the person standing right in front of me.

So I paused.

I walked over, looked her in the eye, and said, “I’m so sorry. I completely jumped into task mode and didn’t even take a moment to introduce myself or ask your name. Thank you for being here. You matter more than the checklist in my head.”

That moment of correction didn’t erase my mistake, but it allowed space for repair. And more importantly, it reminded me of what self-aware leadership looks like in real life:

• It’s not about never messing up.

• It’s about noticing when we do—and choosing to make it right.

This is the real work.

• Noticing when you’re out of alignment.

• Pausing before defensiveness takes over.

• Choosing to connect instead of control.

• Leading with humility, even when it’s messy.

And if you’re ready to practice this more intentionally, here are a few simple steps:

The Leadership Pause: A Self-Awareness Reset

1. Notice the NudgeThat feeling in your gut, the quick breath, the lingering discomfort? It’s often your inner compass saying, “Something’s off.”

2. Pause Before You Plow ForwardEven 3 seconds of space can interrupt the automatic pilot and invite awareness back in.

3. Name What Happened"I missed the moment." "I wasn’t present." Naming it without judgment is powerful.

4. Repair in Real TimeA simple, honest “I’m sorry” or “Can I try that again?” is more powerful than a perfect script.

5. Reflect and RewireAfter the moment passes, reflect. What triggered your autopilot? What would alignment have looked like? These reflections shape your future leadership habits.

One Final Thought…

Self-aware leadership isn’t about always getting it right.  It’s about caring enough to notice when you didn’t. And in those moments when you feel like you almost took someone for granted, don’t stay stuck in shame.

Pause.

Correct.

Connect.

That’s where the gold is. 💛

Reflection Questions:· 

When was the last time I jumped into “task mode” and overlooked the human in front of me? What happened and how did I respond once I noticed?

· What does “self-aware leadership” look like in my daily life… not in theory, but in practice? Am I making space to notice and course-correct when I’m out of alignment?

· How do I typically respond when I realize I’ve made a relational misstep? Do I ignore it, justify it, or pause to repair it?

I'd love to hear what thoughts this brings up for you; if you've been able to avoid taking someone for granted and/or course-correct.  Send me a note! 

YOU MATTER!