Many years ago, while training for coaching certification at the Co-Active Training Institute, I was tasked with coming up with a mission statement – my WHY, for coaching leaders and teams. I came up with:
“I am a bandleader who helps people find their groove.”
As a jazz musician, this musical metaphor came easily to me and I often draw inspiration from what performing with fellow musicians teaches me about active listening, purposeful communication, and leadership:
❌ When I’m unclear about where I’m going in a tune, everyone gets lost
❌ When I don’t listen actively to my fellow musicians, I miss out on beautiful moments to interact and harmonize better as a group
❌ When I fail to communicate intentionally – whether to signal a change in rhythm or the end of a tune – that creates confusion for everyone
At work, leaders play a part in an ensemble of stakeholders, direct reports, key influencers, allies, and senior management. Similar skills translate directly:
✅ Leading with a vision, direction and goals that serve as the team’s North Star
✅ Listening actively, picking up cues, and reading the room to gather context and collaborate better
✅ Communicating purposefully with intention, clarity, and passion for greater impact
What gives you purpose as a leader? What’s your WHY?
