Case Studies

Helping Leaders Explore Shadow Behaviours in High Stakes

Presenting Problem

For leaders to successfully lead through change they must be fully aware of themselves, including those parts which are deeply hidden. These unseen parts of ourselves are referred to as our shadows. Often leaders fail to find inspiration or inspire others because their own shadows get in way. Personal shadows develop from childhood experiences as we learn and identify with the environment around us. Ignoring shadow behaviours is a dangerous game for leaders, as it has the ability to derail them in the most unexpected ways.

Coaching many C-suite leaders whose shadows get in their way of being successful and becoming the leader they want to be. As an experienced coach, we create a safe place for leaders to experiment and try out new habits, the less used part of themselves and gradually help them to experiment in public. This way they don’t get derailed by their shadows, they embrace and integrate them into their leadership practice. In essence, they become fully aware of the leadership shadow they cast across their organization.

The Approach

  • Contract for leadership coaching program

  • Behavioural propensity profile and high stakes profile review

  • Conduct ongoing coaching on shadow behaviours and personal model building (18 month program)

  • Understanding triggers & impacts in high stakes situations

  • Real time coaching and in the moment feedback for the leader

Helping Leaders Explore Shadow Behaviours in High Stakes photo

The Impact

  • Leaders bring their whole self to the work they do building on strengths, encouraged self-awareness and help them develop the skills needed to achieve their full potential

  • Increase leadership trust built within the organization

  • The leader accomplishes their individual and organizational goals

  • Leaders empower a positive movement

  • Insights gained about triggers in high stakes situations

  • Stronger sense of self orientation for the leader