Leadership Inside Out

Issue 155

Unbothered & Empowered

November 7, 2026

Hello Beautiful Human,

There is so much I want to write about this week from the emotional complexity of processing the embodied response to past elections on Thursday, holding space for uncertainty, allowing ourselves to celebrate, and the healing power of when human-centered leaders win through collective effort.

It’s all so good and there’s so much for us to learn from.

It’s been a profound experience watching history in making this week by courageous leaders who believed in the vision and the the collective of individuals who sign on and make their voice heard with their volunteerism and vote.

I often think about the different approaches to leadership: “Power-over others” vs. “empowering others”. One comment about the election sums it up well, “It’s so nice to be able to tell my kids tonight that the bully didn’t win”.

I ask myself, how are these incredible leaders thinking about themselves and their community in order to manage the weight of responsibility and win?

What can we learn from them?

I want to elevate a quote from Texas Gov. Elect, Gina Hinojosa that we can all reflect on.

First of all, this is a woman who is rooted in the power of the collective. Congruent with her Latino culture, she inherently knows the power of we.

Secondly, I have to ask us all, do we embody the confidence that is unbothered by others doubting us?

When you walk into a room of decisions makers and they look at you as if you’re lost? Or if they literally ask, “Are you lost?”

Yes, this actually happened to one of my clients. And her nervous system kept replaying the situation fueling the fear that she can’t be herself in those rooms.

How does your nervous system respond to others’ confusion, doubt, and limiting beliefs?

Do you have a similar experience like my client that has you spending energy trying to fit in or prove yourself instead of powerfully leading with conviction and clarity?

Knowing the answer to this question, and working through how your brain frames the situation and your body responds to others (and your own) doubts is the doorway to Governor level confidence.

Developing the ease of being unbothered by others doubts, confusion or judgement IS possible.

I created my coaching approach to address those automatic nervous system/emotional responses for when the head knowledge isn’t filtering down into embodied confidence.

Working together we intentionally build the skill of mental fitness, emotional capacity, and embodied wellness.

We work with your brain, emotions and support your nervous system to embody the truth of what you bring to your role and why not only do you belong, but that your leadership is essential in that room.

Working together we build the courage to fight, not for yourself out of defensiveness, but for the people you serve with clarity and conviction that changes the world.

This is holistic leadership coaching in action.

I’d love to support you in becoming unbothered by others doubts and fueled up with joy to move forward with your vision.

I am currently accepting 1:1 clients for 2027 and applicants for the next group coaching. Scheduling time together will give you a road map for the skills and practices that will amply your leadership and impact.

Imagine what we could all do when we stopped being bothered by others under estimation of us, quieted our own inner critic and started having FUN in the work we feel called to.

November Happenings:

Get yourself encouragement & support. Pick one or more. 

Wednesday, Nov. 11 – 10:30 – 12 CT Minneapolis MN

Impact HUB’s Experts Are In Series. It’s open to the public and free for HUB members. -> Register Here.

Thursday Nov. 12 – We Are For Good, Impact Up Pause

I will be dropping two solo podcasts on the We Are for Good station leading up to their virtual summit. Subscribe to their podcast & take a moment to pause with other incredible change agents.

Friday, Nov. 13 – National Philanthropy Day Luncheon ​
St Paul, MN

I am honored to share the keynote address at APF-MN’s (Association of Fundraising Professionals Minnesota) Celebration.

KEYNOTE: From Self Care to Sustainable Care: Equipping ourselves with practices that nourish, unlocking more joy and energy to feel better & raise more.

If you are facing the stress of year-end giving season come receive the encouragement and inspiration to enjoy the season. Tickets Here

Wednesday Nov. 18, 12 pm CT – Virtual Holistic Leadership Masterclass

The two emotions that derail us from caring for ourselves. You’ll learn WHY it’s happenings, and more importantly, HOW to experience the liberation that frees you to feel better and make the impact you desire.
​Register Here

THIS MONTH – Book a free Private Discovery Call

Curious about how holistic leadership coaching is fireproofing social impact leaders in the burnout crisis and how it will support your healing, joy, and empowerment?

I’m currently taking discovery calls for 1:1 coaching and the next group coaching cohort. Let’s find the right support right for you for 2027.

Be well,

Sonya

Holistic Leadership Development Coach