Hi Gin,

There’s a moment in almost every high-stakes meeting.

You’re about to present. Someone challenges your idea. A decision is on the table.

And internally, something shifts.

Your chest tightens. Your thoughts begin to move faster. You can feel the impulse to respond quickly: to explain, defend, or push through.

Most leaders move straight through that moment.

But the strongest leaders I’ve worked with have learned to do something different.

They steady first, because they have learned this truth: 

Your internal state is often what people respond to first, even before your words.

Here’s a simple exercise you can use right at the conference table.

The 60-Second Reset

Before you respond:

1. Place both feet flat on the floor.
2. Let your exhale be slightly longer than your inhale.
3. Soften your jaw and tongue.
4. Feel the back of the chair supporting you.
5. Widen your gaze slightly - taking in the whole room instead of focusing on just one person.

No one will know you’re doing it.

But internally, something begins to shift.

Your tone steadies. Your thinking clears. Your timing becomes more intentional. Instead of reacting, you’re choosing how to respond.

This is how resilience becomes viable within and visible to others.

Not in theory, but in moments like these.

I recorded a short video demonstrating exactly how to practice this - and explaining why it works - so you can try it before your next important conversation.

You can watch it here:

If it’s helpful, experiment with it this week and notice what changes.

Leadership is built one steady moment at a time.

Be well,

Gin