Hi Friend,
Often, our most powerful lessons show up when we’re not at our best.
When I arrived in London, I was hit with fever, chills, and a relentless cough. Most of my time was spent in the hotel room resting — and that’s what made the difference. I wasn’t 100% by showtime… but I was ready. Ready enough to stand on that stage with purpose.
Rest didn’t slow me down — it prepared me.
Rest is not weakness. Rest is readiness.
We even created a back-up plan in case I had a coughing attack: the AV team would cut my mic and queue an impromptu dance party. We practiced it once and yes, the audience loved it.
Here’s the reminder I carried home:
You don’t need perfect conditions to make an impact.
Sometimes, you just need the courage to show up.
Spotlight Topic: Social Awareness & Emotional Intelligence
This topic sparked powerful conversations in London and across our Speaking with Impact cohort this month.
Great leaders don’t just read the room.
They feel the room.
Emotional intelligence is not a soft skill — it’s a power skill.
Here’s what that looks like:
This is strategic communication.
This is leadership.
💡Leadership Tool of the Month – Emotional Check-In Questions
Before your next meeting or conversation, ask yourself:
1. What’s the emotional climate?
2. What energy do I need to bring?
3. What does this person/team need most right now?
4. What outcome will move us forward?
Print it. Post it. Practice it.
These four questions can shift your role — from support staff to strategic partner.
📘What I’m Reading Right Now
3 Things I’m Excited to Learn from The Blueprint by Douglas Conant:
1. How to lead with clarity and care
Conant transformed culture by pairing high standards with genuine support. I’m excited to learn more about how clarity builds confidence and care builds commitment.
2. How to define a personal leadership blueprint
He teaches leadership through identity — not title. I’m looking forward to exploring how values, purpose, and presence shape our leadership voice.
3. How small daily practices create lasting change
Transformation doesn’t come from one big moment — it comes from consistent habits. I’m interested in his tools for daily reflection, mindset shifts, and confidence-building actions.
A Powerful Moment in London
A woman I’ve now met in both Vienna and London raised her hand and said again:
“I don’t think my English is good enough.”
Her voice was hesitant. But she spoke anyway.
I asked the audience,
“If you can understand her clearly, say YES.”
The whole room replied:
“YES. YES.”
Then applause.
This moment wasn’t about language.
It was about belief.
Often, it’s not the world telling us we’re not ready —
it’s our own voice.
The room saw her clearly.
It was time she did too.
✨Special Announcement
Now Enrolling: Speaking with Impact — 2026 Cohort
If you’ve been feeling the pull to grow your voice —
To speak with more confidence, clarity, and presence —
To be seen not just for what you do, but for the impact you create…
This may be your moment for transformational development.
When your voice grows, your influence grows.
And when one admin grows — others rise.
👉 Click here for all program details
Want to talk more?
Just reply with “SWI 2026.”
I will connect with you personally.
Your Next Step
If something in this newsletter sparked something in you…
If you’re ready to speak up, lead with clarity, and elevate your presence…
That may be your moment to step forward.
Growth doesn’t begin when everything is perfect.
It begins the moment you decide to show up.
Your voice has power — but only if you use it.
I’m cheering you on,
Peggy
Speaker | Bestselling Author | Empowerment Coach | Admin Advocate