EP171: Why This Moment Calls for Human-Centered Leadership
WHEN YOUR DISTRACTED WITH DISRUPTION…
…the human power skills in leadership are even more critical.
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(The notes below are only a brief bullet point summary of what is discussed in the podcast. Be sure to listen to get all of the goodness! If you would like a full transcription of the episode, please send an email request to: angie@angie-robinson.com. We’d be happy to provide that!)
Let’s be honest—every moment calls for human-centered leadership. But right now, in April 2025, the world feels especially uncertain. There’s a sense of confusion, disruption, and emotional weight that’s showing up in conversations I’m having with clients, teams, and fellow leaders.
This post isn’t about politics. It’s about people—about what many of us are experiencing, and how strong, human-centered leadership can anchor us in times like this.
The Volume Is Louder Right Now
Change is constant. But today, it feels louder. I'm hearing more leaders than usual using words like:
Uncertainty
Fear
Firefighting
Forced pivots
Diluted values
Distraction
These aren’t new leadership challenges. But the intensity and frequency of them feel different right now. And many of the disruptions are being handed down without input or clarity, which adds even more strain.
The Risk: Losing Sight of What Matters
When things get chaotic, the risk is that we start operating in constant reaction mode. While we do need to respond to what’s happening—putting out fires, shifting strategies—it can’t come at the expense of curiosity, compassion, empathy, and connection.
It’s easy to lose sight of people when you're managing change. But your ability to stay grounded in the human experience is what fuels your culture, your team’s engagement, and ultimately, your results.
People Are Carrying a Lot
Not every organization is being directly affected in the same way, but individuals are. Layoffs, immigration changes, education shifts, emotional exhaustion—it’s all present. We don’t leave our personal experiences at the door when we start our workday. We are whole people, and so are the people we lead.
Start with You
When disruption hits, always start with yourself:
What are you feeling—overwhelmed, confused, hopeful?
How is that showing up in your behavior?
What strengths are you leaning on? Are any being overused?
Are you aware of your stress triggers, and are you managing them proactively?
Self-awareness is the foundation. It’s the pixie dust of impactful leadership—especially during hard times.
Lead with the Human in Mind
Here’s what matters most right now:
1. Stay Curious About Your People
Ask yourself: What might my team, my clients, or my peers be carrying that I can’t see?
2. Don’t Press Pause on Leadership Development
When things get tight—financially, emotionally, or operationally—many organizations put leadership development and team support on hold. But I believe that’s when you need it the most.
3. Prioritize Connection
In chaotic seasons, connection often drops. And yet, as humans, we are wired to belong. We want to feel valued and seen. Take the time to create meaningful touchpoints, even if it’s just a check-in or a small gesture.
4. Communicate with Clarity—Even When You Don’t Have the Answers
Saying “We don’t know yet” is communication. It builds trust and transparency. Don’t wait for perfect information to start the conversation.
5. Protect Psychological Safety
Especially when things feel uncertain, people need space to ask questions, make mistakes, and process change. Don’t let psychological safety erode—it’s the foundation of a healthy team.
Remember the Human Side of Change
There are many types of change: sudden, gradual, and intentional. No matter which one you’re facing, effective change management needs both tactical strategy and human support. That includes understanding the psychological process of transition—endings, neutral zones, and new beginnings—as well as how different personalities react to change.
(If you're familiar with Insights Discovery, you know how powerful it is to understand color energies and preferences during times like these.)
Your Leadership Matters More Than Ever
If you’re feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or stretched thin, you're not alone. This is a moment to anchor into your values, check in with your people, and show up with heart. The ripple effect of how you lead in hard times is powerful—and lasting.
You don’t have to navigate it alone. Whether you’re seeking coaching for yourself, support for your leadership team, or guidance for your organization, I’m here to help.
What Do You Think?
How do you keep the human experience in mind when there is disruption and distraction in your business?
Links
Episode 29: Leading Through Change (part one)
Episode 30: Leading Through Change (part two)
Episode 113: Thriving Through Change - What Does It Mean For You?
Episode 114: Thriving Through Change - How You Respond
Episode 147: Leading Yourself and Others During Distracting Times
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