If there’s one foundational shift I encourage my clients to make that literally changes their lives (and my own), it’s this:
Learn to respond instead of react. This single choice can redefine your leadership, your relationships, your inner peace—and your energy. I have learned to choose presence over impulse. And I save energy and a TON of wasted time pretending I can read minds. Because what I am reacting to, often, is not what is really happening. Responding is intentional. It’s the moment you mentally tap the brakes and ask, “What is the truth in this situation?” It invites clarity. It gives your higher self a seat at the table. It’s where real growth and grounded action happen. Reacting, in contrast, is when the body hijacks the moment. Emotions surge. The nervous system overrides reason. You speak or act without pausing—and often regret it later. It’s draining, not just emotionally, but energetically. I’ve had to learn (and re-learn) this lesson personally. There was a moment in my life—one I won’t forget that was the turning point from me—someone VERY close to me said something that cut deep. It wasn’t just the words; it was what they triggered. Old wounds. Stories I thought I had healed. My body reacted instantly: tight chest, heat behind the eyes, a wave of emotion rushing in. Everything in me wanted to lash out. Defend. Shut down. Prove something. But something inside me whispered, “Wait.” So I stepped away. Breathed. Sat with the discomfort. And I asked myself the question that’s become an anchor: “What is the truth here?” The truth was: I was hurt. Not because of what was said—but because of what it touched in me. The truth was: reacting would only create more disconnection. The truth was: I had a choice. That moment changed me. In high-pressure moments, it’s tempting to let reaction win. But choosing to respond instead? That’s where true power lives. It’s not about being passive—it’s about being present. This is the work: creating space between the trigger and the choice. That space is everything. “Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.” — Viktor E. Frankl Reacting is easy. Responding is self- leadership. If you're done being pulled by urgency and ready to lead with clarity and intention, let’s talk. We’d be honored to hold space for you in a complimentary exploratory session. Join me next week for 3 practical tips on how to start responding instead of reacting. Small shifts. Big results. -Amy Magyar, PCC, ICF Mentor Coach In a recent virtual event hosted by FromWithin Coaching, Leadership Coaches, Lu Setnicka and Augusta Good shared invaluable insights on navigating 'hard' communications within organizations. The event, attended by leaders of all levels of experience, from a global organization with diverse backgrounds, delved into the intricacies of addressing challenging topics with employees.
Key Takeaways: Cultivating Empathy: The coaches emphasized the importance of approaching hard conversations with empathy and courage. Understanding the perspectives and emotions of employees lays the foundation for constructive dialogue. Clear Communication Strategies: FromWithin Coaching advocates for clear and transparent communication. Setting expectations, providing context, and being explicit in conveying messages can mitigate misunderstandings. Psychological Safety: Lu Setnicka and Augusta Good highlighted the significance of ensuring that psychological safety is in place to ensure success during tough conversations. Creating a space where employees feel heard and safe contributes to building trust and fostering open communication. Constructive Feedback: The event explored techniques for delivering constructive feedback effectively. The coaches shared practical tips on framing feedback in a way that promotes growth rather than demoralization. Attendees of the large virtual event praised the practicality of the advice shared by Lu and Augusta. Many expressed newfound confidence in approaching difficult conversations, armed with the tools provided during the session. We are grateful for the organization opening up their event to us and we look forward to continuing the learning with them! As organizations evolve, effective communication remains a cornerstone of success, and FromWithin Coaching stands at the forefront, empowering leaders to communicate with empathy, clarity, and confidence. As the owner of FromWithin Coaching, I am in constant awe of the work that organizations are willing to do, and for my Coaches who help them navigate the change they seek! What are you ready for? -Amy Magyar, PCC Our in-house resume writer, C. Jane Taylor was a Strengths doubter. Now that she embraces her Strengths, she’s happier and more fulfilled. You can be, too!
Join her and Coach Mary McClements for a two-hour Strengths workshop tailored to Women Over 50, September 27 starting at 12pm EST. https://fromwithincoaching.com/womenover50cliftonstrengthsevent.html. |
AuthorThe authors of these blogs include incredible Coaches and Writers at FromWithin Coaching who are inspired to share their thoughts, ideas, comments, and possibilities with YOU, the reader. Archives
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