Crystal's Notes 19 April

Should you lead others as a people manager, or lead through expertise as an individual contributor or subject matter expert?

Many people struggle with this question, especially in their late 30s to 40s, when career paths seem to narrow. But choosing to go deep as a subject matter expert or stepping into a leadership role doesn’t lock you in for life. The decision should be made based on what aligns best with who you are right now.

Here are some question to think about if you're feeling torn:

1. Is this decision coming from your values, or from societal expectations?

A lot of people get nudged into management because it’s seen as the “next step” or a “promotion.” But leading people is not an easy job. It will test your patience, your communication skills, and your emotional resilience. It’s not for everyone, and that’s okay.

Ask yourself: Do I genuinely enjoy coaching others, developing their strengths, helping them thrive?
If not, you may find people leadership exhausting, even if you’re technically very good at what you do.

2. What do your values say?

Look at your core values. Are they more individual-oriented value words like resilience, honesty, knowledge, and creativity? Or are they more team and interpersonal words like empathy, open communication, and trust?

People who thrive as individual contributors or subject matter experts often find deep meaning in honing their craft, solving complex problems, and having autonomy. People who thrive as managers often find joy in nurturing potential, building culture, and guiding others through growth.

There’s no hierarchy here. Both tracks can be equally fulfilling, valuable, and impactful.

3. Give yourself permission to try.

You don’t need to have it all figured out. You can step into a leadership role for a season, see how it feels, and decide from there. Or you can remain an expert and explore other ways to lead as a mentor, coach, or thought leader. Leadership doesn’t always come with a title.

The most important thing is to choose with intention, not by default. Nothing is forever. There is no right or wrong answer, and you are allowed to shape your career to fit your life, not the other way around.

Ready to go deeper in your growth journey?

If you’re looking to sharpen your skills, we’ve opened registration for two upcoming Deep Human masterclasses:

• Deep Human Confidence (28 & 29 May, Virtual Training): Learn how to speak with clarity and presence, overcome imposter syndrome, and unlock confidence from the inside out.

• Deep Human Influence (31 May, Full-Day Masterclass): Learn to navigate tricky conversations, manage senior stakeholders, and lead with charisma and gravitas in complex workplace environments.

Also, the waitlist for Deep Human Club Season 3 is now open. Join a community of people who are serious about self-awareness, leadership, and human connection. We’ll be exploring practical tools, reflective conversations, and the skills you need to thrive, at work and in life.

What Deep Human Club Offers:

• Access to high-impact workshops

• A powerful, supportive community

• Curated events and gatherings, both online and in person

• Exclusive resources to support your personal and professional development.

Get on the waitlist here and be the first to know when enrolment opens.

Whether you lead teams or lead through expertise, invest in the version of you that shows up with clarity, confidence, and influence. Come as you are, and leave with the tools to own any room.

Much love

Crystal