Why CEOs choose Silence

A little update from my side: What is the key to becoming a wise leader? I was interviewed by the Create Meaning Collective and shared a few of my biggest lessons from my unusual take on working with CEOs. Read it here if you are curious about my work.

Every leader needs to retreat.

You constantly have to:

• Role model your culture,

• get rid of fires

• Fill your days with meetings and 1:1’s.

You spend 95% of your time “in the dance.“

In other words, you are in action mode with no time to reflect on direction.

How then can you escape the from the dance to the balcony?

Franziska Schmitt, is the CEO of Humanize, a scalable practices tech company.

Franziska is one of the inspiring leaders that made it through the application process for my my annual Wise Leadership Meditation retreat this year.

I asked her why she decides to “remove herself from the grind.”

What is choosing silence giving her?

Franziska shared a few profound insights that show her long-term thinking.

In Franziska’s words:

“Hi Niko,

Lets face it:

Deeper reflection spaces are rare when you lead a team.

But they are essential for showing up with heart and mind in the world.

Here are four reasons why I choose your mix of silence and leadership reflection:

1. Deep Introspection and Reflection

Its so hard to see the big picture. I need space for deep introspection and reflection to see what is possible.

In our fast-paced world, it's a constant struggle to maintain focus amidst the noise and distractions. If I get too lost in busyland It takes me away from my true vision, direction, and the inner leadership that guides me.

Guided spaces for reflecting on my vision help me reconnect and deepen my purpose.

2. Reconnecting with my Inner Vision

Entering Silence is hard. It is a journey of self-discovery.

It's my commitment to step away from the external chaos and tune into the subtle whispers of my heart and mind.

The Silence allows me to reconnect with my inner self, listen to the wisdom within, and gain clarity on my path as a human & as Humanize's CEO.

3. Community and Collective Energy

I look forward to reflecting and going through a journey with a community of fellow leaders and CEOs.

By sharing deep moments we can create a collective energy that supports and enhances our journeys.

If we show up, we can learn from, inspire, and grow with each other.

4. Bandwith and Awareness

Cultivating your bandwidth is crucial if you hold a leadership role.

In our positions, we hold responsibility for others.

This responsibility also requires me to create the space to grow in my awareness, attention, and understanding of myself and others.

This is why i zoom out and will join your wise leadership retreat,

Yours,

Franziska”

Nikolas here again:

If our actions effect others, how do we make sure we are running in the right direction?

We need a dedicated reflection space:

→ A place where you get to a deeper understanding of yourself.

→ A retreat that deepens your relationship with your own wisdom.

→ A training space where you can train your mind free of dogma.

To solve this need for deeper reflection spaces I am hosting my annual “Wise Leadership Retreat“ for leaders (on the 6. August - 11. August this year).

It builds on the framework of the leading neuroscientist of our time, Richard Davidson. I also added dashes of leadership training and a calm setting near a lake.

If you feel like you are a fit for this year’s cohort apply here (or just answer this mail).

P.S. Leading is hard. Here is how I can support you to lead yourself and your organization:

1. The Yearly Reflection Space for Leaders:

I've opened applications for my 2024 "Wise Leadership Retreat.“ It will take place 06.- 11. August this year. You can apply here.

2. A Beautiful Mind for Executives

This one is for you if you want to train your mind with deep training from science and meditation traditions. My virtual “A Beautiful Mind Course” for Executives. Train here.

3. A CEO Playbook library with the best of Management and Leadership:

I scan the best of leadership literature and mindfulness so my clients can focus on what matters most—building a thriving organization. My client's CEO Playbooks library features the best management and leadership theory. You can have exclusive access here.

4. A la Carte Executive Training:

Each year, I support a few leaders & their organizations in transforming into more resonant versions of themselves. Want to be coached by me? Say hello. 

PPS: And because you deserve it - here is your bonus.

My 10 “Most Popular Mini Leadership Guides”:

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