Mommy Finger, Baby Finger

When most people hear the word “manager,” they think of job titles, corporate offices, or leading a team. But lately, I’ve been learning something powerful: Before you can manage others, you have to learn to manage yourself.

This season of life—full of transitions, healing, and self-discovery, has stretched what I call my “manager muscles.” But not in the way you’d expect. It hasn’t been about work performance. It’s been about how I show up when things get hard. About how I lead myself through tough conversations, uncertain decisions, and emotional overwhelm. And here’s the biggest lesson: Self-leadership is the foundation of every kind of leadership.

Self-leadership means:

• Holding yourself accountable even when no one is watching
• Setting healthy boundaries without guilt
• Saying “no” when something doesn’t align with your values
• Managing your time, energy, and emotions intentionally
• Choosing healing and growth, over and over again.

You’re not managing people just in title, you’re managing:

• Yourself under pressure
• Your emotions in conflict
• Your capacity without guilt
• Your influence without control

For me, this has looked like speaking up in a meeting with confidence and clarity. It looked like walking away from situations that drained me, even when it was uncomfortable. It looked like parenting with intention, managing stress without spiraling, and trusting God when logic didn’t give me answers.

Why Managing Yourself Matters More Than Ever

We live in a world that celebrates hustle, performance, and outward success. But I believe the real strength comes from doing the internal work—a private space without applause, recognition, or metrics.

Can you manage your emotions when life doesn’t go your way?
Can you keep your integrity when no one’s watching?
Can you steward your growth when no one else sees it?

I don’t need a title to know I’m growing in leadership. Every time I choose grace over reaction, clarity over control, peace over performance—I’m stretching. Quietly. Daily.

Final Thoughts: This Is Just the Beginning

Maybe you’re in a season where life is asking more of you. Where the old tools and mindset don’t work anymore.

Start with you. Learn about the areas in your life that make you overwhelmed, stretch you and why? Show up for yourself in small ways.

I’ve always believed: to whom much is given, much is required. I didn’t set out to be a manager, but through this season, I’ve learned so much about myself and what it really means to lead—starting with managing my own heart and choices.

From one imperfect leader to another, thank you for embracing growth with me.

Until next time,
Jeannette

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