Weekend Boost No. 157
NAME IT TO LEAD IT
Have you ever noticed something happening in a team or in yourself but struggled to put words to it? That hesitation or silence can hold back clarity, progress, and connection. In this week’s Everyday Leader podcast, we dive into the leadership skill of Naming It—articulating what’s happening in a conversation, a situation, or within yourself so that you can lead with clarity and intention.
Whether you’re leading a team, collaborating with colleagues, or reflecting on your own patterns, these three resources will help you practice naming it—out loud or internally.
Everyday Leader Podcast: Episode 15: The Leadership Skill of Naming It - Shannon and Conrad explore how leaders can speak up in moments of ambiguity, surface unspoken assumptions, and create space for productive dialogue.
Harvard Business Review Article: “How to Talk with Your Team About the Elephant in the Room” - This article frames what we often call “Naming It” as Framing—practical strategies for bringing hidden or uncomfortable issues into the open with clarity and care.
Lead for Good Blog: Leading the Virtual Call - This is an oldie but a good reminder for how to be with your team and remember that connection is key to all our interactions.
THE PRACTICE
This week, try a simple exercise:
Notice one situation where something is unclear, tense, or unspoken.
Take a moment to name it, either silently to yourself or out loud in a constructive way.
Reflect: Did clarity improve? Did you feel more aligned with others or yourself?
Naming it is a leadership muscle—the more you use it, the more natural it becomes. I’d love to hear what you notice when you practice this this week.
