Unmasking the Stuck: My Journey to Authentic Leadership

The other day, someone said something that stuck with me, and I wanted to share it with you.

She said, “I’m sorry I was around you all the time and didn't know you felt stuck.”

I paused to process her words, which struck a deep chord within me.

For the first time, I felt I could finally explain what I hadn't fully understood myself.

The truth is, I didn’t know that I was stuck. To me, being stuck is like being lost in a maze—a complex, winding challenge designed to either guide you toward forward motion or trap you in the past. It’s a place where every choice you make either brings you closer to clarity or pulls you deeper into confusion, with life passing you by as you struggle to find your way out.

I was deeply in love with my career—the dedicated educators I worked alongside were unparalleled, and the students were everything. Every day, I woke up with a sense of purpose, driven to give 110% of my heart and energy to something bigger than myself to serve the greater good. My work was fulfilling, impactful, and deeply connected to my values.

But there was a different story beneath the surface—one that few could see. I am a masterful masker. Most people didn’t “see” my anxiety or realize that I have OCD, let alone understand the dark cloud that follows me, called depression. I masked these struggles daily, presenting a version of myself that society could accept: a professional, always smiling, cheering others on, and leading the way.

Yet, despite all the external success and the genuine passion I felt for my work, a part of me silently yearned for something more—a space where I could show up as my true self in all my complexity. I longed for a world that not only sought to understand people like me but would actively put actionable steps into place to support our unique needs.

So, I created that world—not just for myself but for you—for anyone who has ever felt the need to hide parts of themselves to fit in. I built a space where authenticity is not only accepted but celebrated, where vulnerability is met with compassion, and where we can all thrive, not just as professionals but as whole, complex individuals.

In doing so, I’ve realized that the very things I once saw as obstacles are, in fact, my greatest strengths. They’ve driven me to create environments where others can feel seen, understood, and empowered to bring their whole selves to the table.

This journey has taught me that authentic leadership isn't just about guiding others—it's about creating spaces where everyone feels safe to be their authentic selves, where differences are embraced, and where everyone can find their place to grow, contribute, and succeed.

So, here’s to the world we’re building together—a world where we show up fully and authentically and where we help others do the same—helping them navigate out of the maze and into the light of forward motion.

Love you, mean it.