Leading While Healing

Admin
Nov 4
2 min read

When Leadership and Healing Collide

There was a time when I believed I had to be completely whole before I could lead others. That was before I realized that leadership, like healing, is a journey, one that rarely happens in a straight line. I used to think healing meant stepping away, waiting until I felt “ready” again. But the truth is, life doesn’t always offer the perfect pause. Responsibilities keep calling. Teams still need direction. Family still needs presence. And somewhere between showing up for everyone else, we’re trying to show up for ourselves.

Grace in the In-Between

I’ve led through seasons when my heart was quietly breaking, when disappointment was still fresh, and when grief was a companion that I didn’t choose. Yet even then, leadership called, not because I was perfect, but because I was present.

Healing while leading has taught me that vulnerability is not weakness; it’s wisdom. It’s learning to say, “I don’t have all the answers today, but I’m here—and I’m willing to listen." It’s giving others permission to be human because you’re finally allowing yourself to be.

The Power of Vulnerable Leadership

When you’re healing, you lead differently. You listen deeper. You move slower. You notice what others hide because you’ve learned the language of invisible pain. And somehow, that awareness becomes a form of power; not the loud, performative kind, but a grounded, empathetic strength that people can feel. Leadership from a healing heart isn’t about fixin; it’s about connecting. It’s saying, “Let’s walk through this together,” rather than “Follow me to the finish line." It’s a gentler kind of influence, one that honors humanity over hierarchy.

A Word for Leaders

If you’re in a season where you’re holding the tension of leading and healing; please know it’s okay to pace yourself. It’s okay to pause mid-meeting to breathe. It’s okay to cry and still show up to serve. The version of you that’s healing may actually be the most powerful leader you’ve ever been because you’re leading from truth, not title.

Reflection Prompt

Where have I been waiting to “feel ready” instead of showing up honestly where I am?

Affirmation

“I can lead and heal at the same time. My honesty is my strength.”

Call to Action

Ready to go deeper? My book Another Face of Trauma: Removing the Mask of Overachieving is available now. Order your copy at www.drcapricawells.com.