Leaping Before You're Ready - Courage in Uncertain Times
“You cannot swim for new horizons until you have courage to lose sight of the shore.”
— William Faulkner
Welcome back to The Leader’s Brew—where leadership is a practice, not a performance.
This week, we’re sipping on courage. From navigating uncertainty to stepping into new roles, we explore what it really takes to lead—without all the answers.
🔥 What’s Brewing?
🔹 The Time for Leadership Courage Is Right Now
When is the right moment to show courage?
If you’re leading through uncertainty, the answer is: now.
Whether it’s holding the tension in tough conversations or choosing long-term values over short-term applause, courageous leadership never waits.
🔹 Are You Really Ready to Be a Manager?
You’ve got the title. But do you have the capacity?
Managing others means managing emotions, expectations, and sometimes...your own ego.
“Before you lead others, learn to lead yourself.” - Professor Perch
Ever hesitate to step into leadership because you’re not sure you’re ready?
You’re not alone. Courage starts not when we feel prepared—but when we show up anyway.
⚡️ Explore newsletters that help you lead before you feel fully “qualified.”
🔹 Unlocking Southeast Asia’s Secret to Thriving Organisations
What happens when purpose, adaptability, and cultural roots align?
McKinsey uncovers what Southeast Asian companies are doing differently—and why it matters for the rest of the world.
🔹 Starbucks Realises Humans Still Matter
Even the most automated companies are discovering: AI can’t replace empathy.
Starbucks is rehiring humans to bring back the heart behind the counter.
“Equipment doesn't solve the customer experience that we need to provide” – Brian Niccol, Starbucks CEO
🍵 Try a New Blend?
🔹 How to Stand Out in a Group Interview (Even If You're an Introvert)
You don’t need to be the loudest to stand out.
Learn subtle ways to show confidence and clarity in competitive group settings—especially when you're not the extrovert in the room.
“You don’t always have to be the loudest voice in the room to be heard. Just the most sincere.”
— Aspen
🏡 Home Brew Aroma
🔹 Climbing Out of Pain with Simon Sinek
In a vulnerable conversation with Nat Geo’s Cory Richards, Simon Sinek explores what it means to lead from a place of deep personal healing.
🦉 Professor Perch rests beside a dim lantern:
“Leaders aren’t made in the light. They’re revealed in the dark.”
💬 Let’s Brew Together
Coming Next Week:
🌿 How good coaches make better leaders.
🤖 Plus, Aspen learns what not to say to a chatbot on a bad day.
Until then—lead kindly, rest deeply, and pass the kettle.
— The Leader’s Brew Team
(Featuring Professor Perch & Aspen—currently preparing for a group interview with forest friends.)