Success doesn't always feel like success.

In this Quick Spoon, Ross reflects on a coaching conversation with someone who appeared to have everything going for them: successful, respected and on track for a remarkable career.

Yet something wasn't right.

As they explored what mattered most, a powerful pattern emerged. Many of their decisions weren't moving them towards what they valued. Instead, they were helping them avoid disappointing other people.

It's a trap that many of us fall into, especially when we're caring, conscientious and ambitious.

Reflection Question

Think about a decision you're currently wrestling with.

Are you moving towards something important, or away from someone else's disappointment?

People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.

If you’re enjoying People Soup, hit follow so you don’t miss future episodes.

• Why good leaders go off track - A People Soup special #1 - People Soup
• Leadership beyond autopilot - The McIntosh ACT Leadership Framework

Visit Ross' Website.

Connect with Ross on LinkedIn

People Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian life

He's now also on Bluesky

The People Soup Website on CAPTIVATE

You can't lead beyond what you notice and awareness often begins with a metaphorical itch.

A feeling that something isn't quite right. Something isn't fitting. Something needs attention.

In this Quick Spoon, Ross reflects on a question that changed what he started paying attention to and explores why awareness can be uncomfortable, but essential for growth and leadership.

Reflection Question - What have you been noticing recently that you've been tempted to brush aside?

People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.

If you’re enjoying People Soup, hit follow so you don’t miss future episodes.

• Leadership beyond autopilot - The McIntosh ACT Leadership Framework

Visit Ross' Website.

Connect with Ross on LinkedIn

People Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian life

He's now also on Bluesky

The People Soup Website on CAPTIVATE

We're encouraged to be quick, responsive and always on.

But what happens when urgency becomes identity, reaction becomes leadership and speed becomes a virtue?

In this Quick Spoon, Ross reflects on why he believes the pause is becoming an unfashionable leadership skill—and why that might be a problem.

Discover why the pause sits at the heart of Ross's leadership framework and a simple practice to help create more choice in moments that matter.

Reflection Question

Pause for 5 seconds and as yourself - what's needed here?

People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.

If you’re enjoying People Soup, hit follow so you don’t miss future episodes.

• Leadership beyond autopilot - The McIntosh ACT Leadership Framework

Visit Ross' Website.

Connect with Ross on LinkedIn

People Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian life

He's now also on Bluesky

The People Soup Website on CAPTIVATE