January 2026 | 4min read
Most of us wear masks in different parts of our lives, often without even realizing it, especially when it comes to personal growth, self-awareness, and authentic leadership.
A couple of years ago, I shared a photo of me clearing snow. On the surface, I was smiling, but let’s be honest, I didn’t actually WANT to be out there shoveling. Who in their right mind WANTS to shovel snow!
That photo has been on my mind again lately, not because of the snow – God NO!
But because of what it represents.
The mask.
The masks we wear
Most of us wear masks in different parts of our lives, often without even realizing it. We wear them at work, in leadership roles, with our families, and sometimes even with people we trust, which directly impacts workplace culture, leadership presence, and personal development.
It might be:
- the “competent leader” mask that many high-performing leaders feel pressured to wear
- the “everything’s under control” mask often tied to leadership pressure
- the “I’m fine, I’ve got this” mask that hides gaps in emotional intelligence
And to be clear, masks aren’t always bad. They can protect us, help us perform, and give us structure when things feel uncertain .. especially when we’re practicing resilient leadership and leading under pressure.
Some masks even give you superhero qualities. Kidding – please don’t put on a mask and try to fly. Don’t do this! 😀
The issue isn’t that we wear masks at all. It’s when we stop choosing them consciously and start hiding behind them instead.
Take off the mask
This isn’t about being raw for attention, rude or authentic for effect. No one likes the “Well, that’s just how I am” person! 😀
It’s about noticing where you might be hiding and asking yourself whether that mask still serves you as part of your personal growth mindset and vulnerable leadership practice.
Leadership isn’t about removing the mask once and being done with it. It’s about making a conscious choice, again and again, about how you want to show up in the moments that matter, which is the foundation of intentional leadership habits.
So here’s something to reflect on as we kick off 2026:
- Where might you be wearing a mask right now?
- Notice the moment you’re about to put the mask on .. and pause (to build self-awareness).
- Then decide if it’s the appropriate mask AND how much of it to put on, depending on situation, circumstance and context
That pause is where awareness lives.
And awareness is where better leadership and growth mindset begins!
C’mon now .. One more time for the people in the back!
Your turn
💬 Comment: Where do you notice yourself wearing a mask?
🔁 Share this with someone who might need the reminder also.
Conquer 2026.
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