Two Things Can Be True
This week, a colleague I had the privilege of meeting for the first time shared something that has stayed with me. She said, "It was refreshing to meet you." As I reflected on her words, I realized they represented something much deeper than a compliment. Too often, we are led to believe we must choose between excellence and encouragement. That we must either be rigorous or relatable. That holding people accountable means sacrificing compassion. But I've learned something different.
Two things can be true. You can uphold high standards and still lead with humility. You can ask difficult questions and still build trust. You can conduct a rigorous audit and leave people better than you found them.
In my profession, people sometimes expect auditors to arrive looking for faults. While identifying opportunities for improvement is part of the role, I believe our greater responsibility is to help organizations strengthen their systems, develop their people, and build cultures where excellence can thrive.
Accountability and encouragement are not opposites. In fact, when combined, they create an environment where people feel challenged to grow rather than afraid to fail.
The same principle applies beyond auditing. As parents, leaders, coaches, teachers, and friends, we don't have to choose between grace and standards. We can extend kindness without lowering expectations. We can pursue excellence without losing our humanity. Perhaps that's what being "refreshing" really means. Not lowering the bar. But helping others believe they can rise to meet it.
Today, I encourage you to consider this question: Where in your life have you believed you had to choose between two good things that were never meant to compete?
Maybe... Two things can be true. And perhaps that's where real leadership begins.— Maia Treleaven.
Elevate the Standard. Maximize the Moment.