“A session with you feels more intense than a fitness class!”

That’s what an international sales director told me just a few days ago, right after our weekly sparring partner session.

Not a compliment on my physical condition…
But a spontaneous reaction to deep, focused, and transformational work.

When performance opens the door to self-awareness

That day, the issue looked very straightforward.

One of his sales managers wasn’t meeting targets.
Weekly meetings were disorganized.
No decisions were being made. Tension was rising.
And he — the leader — was holding back. Too afraid to damage the relationship.

It all sounded very ordinary.
But so often, these “ordinary” situations reveal the most fundamental internal blocks.

What we uncovered

Three concrete tools to strengthen your posture

Here are the 3 most effective “exercises” I use in sessions with leaders:

1. Set a clear intention before any conversation

Just like in a workout: “Today, I’m focusing on my upper body.”
In a meeting: “My goal is to make sure this decision gets made.”

That clarity alone changes your presence, your words, your impact.

2. Listen for the needs behind the behaviour

Active listening isn’t a soft skill.
It’s a strategic lever to adjust your management style and unlock situations.

What the person says — but also what’s left unsaid.

3. Refine your laser communication

Fewer justifications.
Fewer filler words (“well… just… maybe…”).
More intentional silence.

Each word has more weight.
Each pause gives you presence.
And the impact of your message grows — naturally.

What this leader discovered

y daring to say “no” to unrealistic expectations, he uncovered:

Hidden fears (disappointing, appearing weak, being judged)
And new strengths: boundary-setting, clarity, deepened trust

He left with a training plan.
A commitment to make intentional leadership his daily practice.

And you?

When was the last time your needs came second to everyone else’s?

What micro-adjustment could you try this week?
What space could you reclaim — to take your place with clarity and integrity?

At Manentiel, we believe in this balance:
A space to think. A momentum to act.