The nervous system is the leader. Presence-first leadership begins in the body — not the role — and it’s a practice every career story deserves to honor.

Presence-first leadership begins where career disruption meets nervous system disruption. A reflection on self-leadership, career clarity, and standing again after layoff.

Leadership that betrays the body is not leadership. This is a story of collapse, recovery, and the embodied recalibration required to lead from presence — not depletion.

Recovery from toxic work patterns starts here: presence-first leadership, embodied self-trust, and the daily work of showing up — again and again — for yourself.

Leadership presence isn’t built in performance — it’s practiced in presence. A reflection on showing up, taking up space, and leading from within the room you’re in.