I Almost Missed the Love…

I almost missed the Love…let me share a story with you.

Standing on stage, I could feel the connection with the audience as I delivered my final line, hand on my heart, uplifting and affirming them as Loving Leaders.

Renee delivering her keynote talk

A short pause floated in the air, and then – applause. I smiled and nodded in acknowledgement and turned to step off the stage. I could feel the fuzzy buzz of adrenaline in my body.

The conference organizer met me at the base of the stage with a gift bag and a big hug. I welcomed the physical connection to re-ground me.

But when I turned to walk to my seat, I was shocked by what I saw.

The audience was standing and applauding. A standing ovation!

In that moment, I had a choice. I could deflect this, or I could receive it.

I let their support wash over me like a warm wave. I saw them and received their appreciation and Love.

I didn’t realize how much this support meant to me. But after months of preparation and then pouring my heart out, honestly, I personally valued their affirmation.

With the attendees of the conference

And as a human who feels urgency to tip the planet from fear to Love, their response encouraged me to keep going, to keep bringing this message to as many people as possible.

But here's the thing: I was so busy with what was right in front of me, and honestly, feeling a little bashful after speaking, that I almost missed their outpouring of Love.

I'm reminded of this, Loving Leader, and want to be sure you hear this: You can’t just keep pouring out love to others; you need and deserve to receive it too. But it's all too easy to miss it, or dismiss it when love comes your way.

It’s important to stop here and reflect:

• Do you find yourself so caught up in the details of work or life, so busy with what’s right in front of you, that you don’t look up to see the impact you are having? This could take the form of thanks, progress on a goal, or a happier team.

• Can you recognize your impact in the moment? Or do you find yourself deflecting appreciation when it does come your way?

• If you are in the habit of deflecting appreciation or dismissing your contributions, what might you do instead, the next time praise or progress comes your way?

Comment and share your answers with me. I'd love to hear from you.

And if you want to have a strategic conversation about growing as a Loving Leader, schedule time here!

Don't miss the Love that is yours!