“The essence of trauma is the disconnection from the self.”
— Gabor Maté
Our bodies hold memories of every encounter, every situation and every trauma we’ve experienced. These memories shape who we are, influence our actions and define how we lead.
As you know, I’ve had the privilege of listening to some of the most renowned experts in the field of somatics (a living body in its entirety) and trauma this year. All I can say is – our bodies are remarkable and remember everything – from the smallest gesture to the most significant trauma. These memories are stored within us, often beyond our conscious awareness and influence our behaviors and decisions.
Leaders and their inner worlds
I don’t believe in coincidences; every person we meet and every experience happens for a reason. These encounters shape us and create who we really are, and therefore also our leadership style.
So, to lead effectively, it is essential to embark on a journey of self-discovery. This means digging into our roots, exploring the periods before we became who we are now and understand the somatic signs that shape our behaviors.
And finally, don’t forget that we need each other to grow, reflect and discover what lies within us. We need people and they are in our life for a reason.
Practical steps for leaders
- Grounding techniques – they are good to connect with the present moment, especially during stressful situations.
- Somatic dialogue – ask your body questions about how it feels and what it needs and listen to the responses without judgment.
- Rest and recovery – prioritize rest and recovery to avoid burnout, get enough sleep and take regular breaks.
- Seek support– working with a somatic coach can help you develop greater self-awareness and resilience. It provides you with tools and guidance needed to navigate the challenges of leadership and foster a healthier connection with your team.
