Nadia Mancuso - In the spotlight
- Sarah Moore
- Jan 19
- 3 min read
Throughout my work with Early Education Leadership, I have experienced many valuable learning moments; however, the Elevating Relationships and Managing Your Emotions modules have had the greatest impact on my leadership development.
These modules deepened my understanding that emotions are a form of energy and that the way we consistently show up as leaders directly influences trust, engagement, and team culture.
Our energy is contagious, and when we are intentional about how we present ourselves, we create a sense of psychological safety that allows our teams to perform at their best.
One of the most meaningful shifts in my leadership practice has been the conscious application of self-regulation, particularly before difficult conversations or a problematic meeting. I have learned that every conversation begins with me, and that my mindset, emotional state, and preparation set the tone for how the interaction unfolds. To support this, I now follow a simple but highly effective process: first, I prime myself; second, I remain curious during the conversation; third, I reflect; and finally, I agree on a way forward.
I believe the fourth step, agreeing on a way forward is especially critical. It ensures clarity, reinforces shared accountability, and provides a clear path for continued communication. By jointly agreeing on next steps, expectations are aligned and understood which strengthens commitment on both sides.
This approach has enabled more open, collaborative, and respectful conversations, leading to improved outcomes for all involved. I have also observed a noticeable positive shift within my team. They appear calmer, more settled, and more confident, which I attribute to reduced uncertainty and the consistency of my leadership approach. When leaders are intentional and emotionally aware, it creates stability and trust within the team environment.
A key insight for me has been recognising that not everyone will be on the same page at the same time and that this is entirely acceptable. Each individual is on their own journey, shaped by different experiences and perspectives. Effective leadership requires awareness, empathy, and the ability to meet people where they are, rather than expecting similarity. This has been a huge learning curve in my leadership journey.
The learning journey never truly ends; rather, you become increasingly conscious of what is happening around you. There are moments when you feel like there is a ‘pebble in your shoe’, a sense of discomfort. It is in these moments that the real learning and growth take place.
As a leader, I encourage leading with the heart, remaining curious rather than judgmental, and creating space for understanding. By doing so, we foster stronger relationships, build trust, and inspire more meaningful, positive, and sustainable responses from those we lead. The Conscious Leaders Mastermind program CLM has also given me permission to let go of the pressure to have all the answers all the time.
CLM program provides a wealth of valuable information. I use a strategy of noting the insights that resonate most with me in each module and displaying them on my wall for easy reference. Reviewing them at a glance reinforces these important concepts.
Nadia Mancuso - Centre Coordinator - Wellbank Children's Centre: City of Canada Bay - 14 January 2026
Join me live for an upcoming free webinar that builds your leadership skills in line with NQS by registering here, or if you've missed a webinar you can watch the recording in my vlog.
Ready to take the next steps in becoming the leader you want to be? Book in a free discovery call to see how we can work together.
Comments