Well, folks, we’ve been on quite the leadership journey together, diving deep into some of my favorite Taylor Swift lyrics to unearth some golden nuggets of leadership wisdom. As we wrap up this series, here are your cliff notes of what we’ve hummed along to…

Honesty vs. Harmony

Starting with the raw emotions in “All Too Well,” looked at how honesty in leadership isn’t just about being blunt—it’s about being kind too. It’s not just what you say, it’s how you say it. True leaders know how to deliver tough messages without breaking the spirit of their team. While hard convos aren’t necessarily my strength, I stand by the “in your face” blunt style will never be something that wins others over and creates the culture that makes people want to be there.

Self-awareness is Your Best Friend

In  “AntiHero,” we reexamined the importance of self-awareness. Acknowledging our own mistakes isn’t just brave, it’s essential. It sets the stage for genuine growth and learning, and hey, it shows everyone we’re human too. I had a chandelier hanging in my principal’s office. I’m not scary…come talk to me!

You Do You

“You’re on Your Own, Kid” gave us a reason to toe tap to sing about embracing our individual journeys. Leadership can feel like a solo act, but every challenge we face tunes our skills and sharpens our resolve. It’s about owning your story and rocking it, even when the going gets tough. Realizing that everyone has struggles, hits rough waters, or questions their decisions isn’t a bad thing… it’s the actual thing we are doing…leading.

Criticism? Shake It Off

Finally, “Ours” reminded us that criticism comes with the territory.

Protecting your team from the noise and focusing on the kids is what leadership looks like in action.

 

This ends my series. Although, with the #TTPD release, I sure could keep going! (I can do it with a broken heart?? Enneagram three’s everywhere are bopping along to that one!!)  Whether you’re facing the thunderous applause of success or the eerie quiet of challenges, remember that your leadership style is your signature—unique, impactful, and wonderfully yours.

Thank you for tuning in, sharing your thoughts, and dancing along through this with me. It’s been fun!

Shaking a sequin Swift skirt &