What Are You Still Carrying? A Leadership Lesson from a Zen Story

Send us Fan MailSometimes the most powerful leadership lessons come from the simplest stories.In this episode of the Leadership Vision Podcast, Brian and Linda share a short Zen parable that surfaced during a coaching conversation with a client. The story, originally from Zen Shorts by Jon J. Muth, is about two traveling monks, a frustrated young woman, and a moment that reveals how easily we hold on to things longer than we should.As Nathan, Linda, and Brian unpack the story together, the conversation turns toward a deeper question for leaders and teams:What are we still carrying that we should have set down hours ago?The parable opens up a thoughtful discussion about perspective, emotional awareness, leadership mindset, and the subtle ways our interpretations of events shape the culture around us.Along the way, the team explores how each character in the story reflects different leadership tendencies—and how recognizing those patterns can help leaders grow in awareness and compassion.It’s a short story, but one that invites a powerful moment of reflection.Reflection Questions for LeadersAs you listen, consider these questions:• What situation am I still carrying that I could let go of? • Which character in the story do I relate to most right now? • Am I amplifying a challenge that may actually be smaller than I think? • Who is walking alongside me on my leadership journey?Support the show-Read the full blog post here!CONTACT USemail: [email protected] FacebookLeadership Vision OnlineABOUTThe Leadership Vision Podcast is a weekly show sharing our expertise in discovering, practicing, and implementing a Strengths-based approach to people, teams, and culture. Contact us to talk to us about helping your team understand the power of Strengths.