What My Cowboy Dad Taught Me About Leadership
I didn’t expect to talk about my cowboy Dad on International Women’s Day.
But there I was, standing in front of hundreds of professionals at Advance for Gender Equality’s flagship event in Switzerland, when moderator Christine Maier turned to me and asked:
“What’s the best leadership advice you got from your cowboy father?”
I answered:
Stay in the saddle, especially when the bulls are around.
The audience laughed. The phrase could mean a lot of things. And that’s how I meant it.
But it’s been a guiding principle for me—in leadership and life.
Because here’s my truth: Leadership isn’t about controlling every move or forcing outcomes. It’s about staying grounded, reading the situation, and adapting in real-time—no matter what’s coming at you.
I learned this firsthand in my first significant leadership role.
The Moment I Learned What It Means to Lead
When you step into leadership, it’s easy to feel you must prove yourself. Set the vision. Show them why you belong.
But the moment that changed everything for me?
I stopped focusing on what I needed to say—and started by asking my team what they needed from me.
Instead of laying down a plan and expecting them to follow, I asked:
“How can I help you be successful?”
or even
“What do we need to do to exceed the expectations of our customers?”
That one shift changed everything.
Their body language relaxed. Conversations opened up. And I realized something powerful:
They wanted to do more. Together.
That was the moment I understood—resilient leadership isn’t about proving yourself. It’s about creating an environment where people feel supported, seen, and empowered to do their best work.
And science backs this up.
The Science of Resilient Leadership
Resilience isn’t just about grit. It’s about how we adapt—and how we help others adapt.
Here’s why resilient leaders thrive:
1. Psychological Safety Fuels High-Performing Teams
Harvard professor Amy Edmondson’s research proves that the most successful teams aren’t the ones with the smartest individuals—they’re the ones where people feel safe asking questions, taking risks, and sharing ideas without fear of judgment.
When I asked my team how I could support them instead of telling them what to do, I was building that safety. I was showing them:
“I see you. I value you. We’re in this together.”
That’s when real collaboration—and resilience—begins.
2. Your Brain is Wired to Adapt
Neuroplasticity research shows that our brains rewire in response to challenges. The more we step into uncertainty, the more we develop the mental flexibility to handle whatever comes next.
Every challenge isn’t just a test—it’s an upgrade of your capabilities.
3. Resilient Leaders Set the Emotional Tone
Have you ever walked into a room and felt the energy shift because of one person? That’s because of mirror neurons—the part of our brain that picks up on and reflects the emotions of those around us.
If a leader is anxious, the team feels it. The team mirrors that steadiness if a leader stays grounded—staying in the saddle even when challenges arise. The same principle applies to speakers on stage and their audiences.
Resilient leaders don’t just stay strong for themselves. They create strength in the people around them.
How to Strengthen Your Resilience as a Leader
Want to build the kind of resilience that helps you—and your team—thrive?
Ask, don’t assume. Instead of leading with authority, lead with curiosity. Ask your team what they need to succeed. Listen. Adjust. This builds trust and engagement.
Redefine challenges as training. Every setback is an opportunity to build mental strength. Instead of resisting difficulties, see them as a chance to upgrade your resilience.
Steady yourself first. Your team will mirror your energy. If you want them to stay calm under pressure, you should model that first.
Stay present and adaptable. Like horseback riding, leadership isn’t about pulling harder on the reins. It’s about feeling the movement, sensing the terrain, and adjusting accordingly.
Final Thoughts: The World Needs Leaders Who Stay in the Saddle
Challenges are not meant to break you. They come your way because you’re ready for them.
And the best leaders? They don’t just weather the storm. They help their teams feel steady in the saddle, too.
So, next time uncertainty hits, ask yourself:
Am I tightening my grip out of fear or staying grounded, reading the terrain, and adapting as needed?
Authentic, resilient leadership is not about control but about presence, awareness, and trust.
Stay in the saddle. You’re more ready than you think.
A moment to reflect:
What’s one challenge you’re navigating right now?
How can you reframe it as training rather than a test?
Who on your team might need your support to stay steady in the saddle?
Resilience isn’t built alone—it’s strengthened together. So, are you ready for whatever comes next?
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