#92: Leading from Within (Notes)
- Wen Xin Ng
- Jul 7
- 1 min read
Updated: Jul 8
It's important to understand the concept of shadows, not to excuse our own or others’ behaviour, but to recognise how our words and actions are shaped by deeper mindsets, which in turn are rooted in our lived experiences.
This awareness helps us respond with greater intentionality, rather than reacting out of habit or fear. It also reminds us to manage our own tendencies so we don’t unknowingly cast our shadows onto others, and to respond with steadiness when others’ shadows surface too.
Shadow | Gift | tl;dr |
Insecurity about identity and worth | Identity is not tied to roles or status, but to intrinsic worth | Know who you are beyond your job or title, so you don’t diminish others to feel whole |
Belief that the world is a battleground | The universe is fundamentally good and people are working together for good | Life isn’t a constant fight; choose trust and collaboration over fear and control |
Functional atheism (believing everything depends on you) | You’re not alone; trust others, share the load, and stay open to the possibility that others may do things even better | You don’t have to do it all; liberate yourself and empower others |
Fear of chaos | Chaos is the precondition to creativity | Don’t over-control—creativity and change are born from uncertainty |
Denial of death and fear of failure | Endings aren’t failures, they’re necessary for growth and renewal | Let go when it’s time; endings make space for beginnings. |
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