.png)
Your Words Shape Your Influence...so "how say you?"
- Nicole F. Smith, M.Ed. (CEO/Founder)
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Hey there!
We're closing in on 2026. The question isn't whether it's coming—it's whether you're ready.
I am in the 10K Small Businesses Goldman Sachs program. And it is more than I ever imagined. I have one professor who says "How say you?" when he is asking us our opinion or thoughts. So I ask, How say you on the two previous leadership challenges?
Here is a recap.
═════════════════════
Day 1 Challenge | Name it to Tame it: Notice the first emotion you feel today. Name it. Delay your response for 10 seconds. Then choose your next move intentionally and with clarity. (If you need more than 10 seconds, please take the pause.)
Day 2 Challenge | Own Your Triggers: Identify one trigger that keeps getting the best of you. Write down the story you attach to it… and rewrite it.
═════════════════════
OK! DAY 3
Leaders aren't judged by what they intend—they're judged by what they say and how they say it.
Your words convey the message. Your tone and body language convey whether people should believe you.
Here's the truth: When your words, tone, and body language align, your message lands with power. When they conflict, people trust what they see and hear over what you say.
Every time.
Today's Challenge: Before your next high-stakes conversation, pause and ask yourself: What exactly needs to be said here? Then say it—clean, direct, and fully aligned.
Also use this to help:
Does this need to be said?
Does this need to be said by me?
Does this need to be said by me right now?
Watch three things:
Your words – Are you being vague to avoid discomfort?
Your tone – Does it convey confidence and sincerity, or doubt?
Your body – Are you open and grounded, or closed off and distracted?
Reflection Question: Where are you sending mixed signals and what is that costing you?
If you struggle with communication under pressure, or it is challenging to find the right words, reply "Language."
I hope these are landing for you. My goal isn't to add more to your plate. It's to help you lead with more clarity and less effort.
See you tomorrow!
With gratitude and impact,
Nicole F. Smith, CEO/Founder, JMS Creative Leadership Solutions
Creator of the EQ Impact® Framework
Before You Go — A Quick Note
If you’re thinking about bringing EQ Impact® into your organization or want to work with me directly…
My 2026 calendar is already filling up.
I want to see you and your organization win. So here’s my commitment: I’m offering a limited-time discount to organizations and individuals who secure their 2026 slot now. If you’re serious about elevating your leaders, this is your moment. Claim it before it’s gone.
Now is the time to connect.
Let’s talk about your goals, your people, and the emotional stamina your organization needs to thrive.
Thank you for being part of this journey with me. This isn’t just my story — it’s ours.
Together, we’re building leaders, including yourself, to lead with courage, compassion, and emotional brilliance.
Want to set up some time? Let's talk: Click here!
Leaders choose to work with me and my team because we don’t just talk strategy. We build emotionally intelligent leaders who lead with clarity, presence, and purpose.
You're receiving this email because you’re not interested in performing leadership. You’re here to practice it.
You booked a call, joined an event, or signed up because something in you said, it’s time to lead differently. You’re ready to create a life and business rooted in who you are—not in outdated rules or titles that never fit. And we’re here to help you do exactly that—with emotional intelligence at the center.
