Navigating Leadership Tensions in Real Time: It’s not Weakness. It’s Alignment.
Each month, we’ll explore the tensions that sit at the heart of leadership and human behavior—the moments where clients feel stretched, uncertain, or caught between competing demands. These reflections are drawn from my work in leadership and executive coaching across private, non-profit, federal and military sectors, where these tensions surface consistently in complex, high-stakes environments.
At the same time, I invite you to make this your own. Whether you coach leaders, teams, students, or individuals in transition, these tensions are human—not role-specific. Adapt them to your context, your clients, and your coaching style—so they become not just concepts, but tools that deepen your presence and expand your impact.
By Lisa J. Kuruvilla, ICF MCC, CMC, CEC
It’s not Weakness. It’s Alignment.
Insight:
Many clients hesitate to speak up—not because they lack confidence, but because they are navigating competing priorities: relationship vs truth, harmony vs clarity. What often appears as hesitation is actually a signal that values are trying to come into alignment.
As coaches, our role is to help clients reframe this moment—not as weakness, but as an opportunity to align their voice with what matters most.
Sample Question:
Where might speaking up strengthen alignment—even if it feels uncomfortable?
Application:
Listen for hesitation. Slow the moment. Invite the client to explore what their silence might be protecting—and what it may be costing.
President's Letter: May 2026
Leadership Continuity: 2026 Nominating Committee Underway
Dear Members,
As part of our ongoing commitment to strong governance and continuity, I’m pleased to share that our 2026 Nominating Committee is now in place.
Dale Beaman, Ebonie Cossbert, and Leila Wallut are leading this effort, with Della Shaw serving as Board liaison, providing context and supporting outreach across our network.
The committee has been tasked with identifying talent within our chapter—members who are interested in being considered for the upcoming Board term. This is a focused and important effort to ensure we continue to build a strong and sustainable leadership pipeline.
Over the coming weeks, you may hear from Dale, Ebonie, or Leila as they connect with members to explore interest and readiness for Board service. I encourage you to consider these conversations thoughtfully and welcome the opportunity to contribute.
The upcoming Board term will run from September 1, 2026 through August 31, 2028.
What to Expect
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The Nominating Committee will submit a recommended slate of candidates to the Board by mid-July
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The Board will review and approve the slate
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Members will receive an electronic ballot prior to August 1 to cast their vote
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The newly elected Board will be installed at the Annual Meeting
We are excited to welcome new talent into leadership and continue building on the strong foundation of our chapter.
Thank you, as always, for your engagement and support.
Warm regards,
Jennifer Torres
