I was in the elevator at the hospital the other day and couldn’t help but notice the people around me. 

I was with my mum, coming from the oncology ward.

Then we stopped at the paediatric ward.

Then the surgery ward.

Then the bone marrow transplant ward.

First, two friends stepped in. Then a grandmother with her grown-up granddaughter (they looked so alike!).

As the six of us stood there, I couldn’t help but think of how each of us needed that other person beside us.

We were all supported.

Sometimes we’re required to have someone accompany us for certain treatments or procedures. But sometimes, it’s simply important to share moments with someone close.

We don’t always have to be that strong, independent person who can do everything alone. That emotional support, the quiet presence of someone who cares, is vital.

And I wonder: do we invite others in enough?

Not just to help us through the tough times, but to share ideas, bring new perspectives, build courage, and foster resilience. It strengthens our mental health and it makes us stronger.

Connection and belonging are essential.

But are we really making the effort to cultivate and activate our circles – whether family, friends, or colleagues?

There will always be tough moments. But the question is HOW we go through them.

Yes, mindset matters. But it’s also the people around us – our community – that make it possible to keep going.

In leadership, just as in life, strength doesn’t come from doing it all alone.
It comes from having the courage to connect, and to let others in.