Are you confident, or just good at hiding doubt? Let's talk about why you don't feel confident yet...
Dear Leaders, Members & Community Allies,
Three seconds.
That's how long she hovered over the "unmute" button before talking herself out of it.
"Someone else probably has a better point."
"I haven't thought this through enough."
"What if I'm wrong?"
By the time she'd worked up the courage to speak, the meeting had moved on. Her idea, the one that could have saved her team three weeks of work, stayed locked in her head.
Later, her colleague proposed the exact same solution. Everyone loved it.
She wasn't angry. She was exhausted.
Exhausted from the constant calculation:
Is this worth saying? Am I sure enough? Will they think I'm...
The real question isn't whether you have good ideas.
It's whether you trust yourself enough to share them.
Here's what we know:
Confident leaders drive 34% better team performance, make decisions 50% faster, and create workplaces where people want to stay.
But confidence isn't something you either have or don't have, it's a skill you can develop, strengthen, and sustain.
At AWL, we believe that real confidence comes from understanding yourself first.
It's rooted in self-awareness, built through practice, and sustained by the right support systems. When you strengthen confidence, everything else, your communication, your influence, your ability to lead through change, becomes more effective.
The secret to sustainable confidence? It starts with the inner work.
Whether you're stepping into a new role, navigating uncertainty, or simply ready to show up with more clarity and conviction, confidence is your foundation. And when you pair confidence with emotional intelligence?
That's when transformation happens.
As co-founders, we bring distinct strengths to this work. Jen offers depth, empathy, and insight from the world of human behavior. Melissa brings focus, strategy, and momentum rooted in business performance. Together, we model what it means to lead with both emotional clarity and operational strength because true confidence requires both heart and strategy.
This Month's Focus: Safety & Trust + Confidence
The AWL Growth Sequence moves teams through three essential stages: Safety → Growth → Performance.
This month, we're focusing on the Safety & Trust Stage, the foundation where confidence begins. This is the stage where leaders establish psychological safety, build trust, and create the conditions that make growth possible.
At this stage, confidence isn't about being the loudest voice in the room. It's about:
- Trusting yourself enough to speak up
- Creating spaces where others feel safe to contribute
- Communicating with clarity, even when it's uncomfortable
- Building the self-awareness that fuels authentic leadership
Our Confidence Pillar isn't just about public speaking or executive presence. It's about developing the inner belief that you belong in the rooms you're in and that your voice matters.
When you strengthen confidence at the foundation level, you create:
✔ Higher engagement—people contribute more when they trust themselves and their environment
✔ Better decision-making—clarity comes from confidence, not just competence
✔ Stronger teams—psychological safety is the #1 predictor of high-performing teams
✔ Sustainable leadership—confidence built on self-awareness doesn't burn out
The business impact?
Organizations with high psychological safety see 27% lower turnover, 40% fewer safety incidents, and 76% more engagement compared to low-safety environments. When people feel safe to speak up, ask questions, and take smart risks, innovation accelerates and performance compounds.
Remember the leader from the Zoom call, the one who hovered over "unmute" for three seconds too long?
Here's what could have changed that moment:
If she had built confidence in herself: She would have recognized that her hesitation wasn't evidence she had nothing valuable to say, it was just her brain trying to protect her from perceived risk. Confidence isn't about being 100% certain. It's about trusting that your perspective has value, even when it's still forming.
If her leader had built psychological safety: She would have known that half-formed ideas are welcome in that space. That "I'm not sure, but what if we tried..." is an acceptable way to contribute. That her team actually wants to hear her thinking process, not just her polished conclusions.
If her organization understood the foundation: They would have realized that confident teams aren't built by hiring confident people. They're built by creating environments where people feel safe enough to share the ideas that haven't been perfected yet.
That's the leadership foundation most organizations don't realize they need to build first.
So this month, we invite you to pause and ask yourself:
🔹 Where am I holding back because I'm not confident in my contribution?
🔹 What would change if I trusted my voice as much as I trust my expertise?
🔹 How can I create more safety in my environment so others can show up confidently too?
And if you lead others, ask this too:
🔹 How many great ideas am I missing because my team doesn't feel safe sharing them?
This isn't about perfection. It's about building the foundation that makes everything else possible.
Whether you're navigating a career transition, building a team, or preparing for 2026, confidence begins with trust—in yourself, in your environment, and in the process of growth.
Let's explore what that looks like across December.
What We've Been Up To at AWL – December Update, from Jen:
As we head right into the holiday season, I encourage you to pause. This month can be a lot—hustle and bustle of holiday shopping, hosting friends and family, hard memories, happy memories, and everything in between! Even if this is the happiest of times for you, it can still be a lot if you don't take time to pause.
Start small! Just count to ten, take a deep breath and move on.
Start small to get big!
December started off with me taking a week long pause. I was on my honeymoon in Mexico. Didn't bring my computer with me (want to talk about anxiety?). Not going to lie, it was hard to get out of work mode and that made me reflect.
For the last 10 years (since my divorce) I have been working DAILY.
Work is what brought me through the chaos of my life. That is no longer serving me as I don't need that level of coping strategy anymore. And so, therefore, I need to make a behavior shift.
What about you? What behaviors have helped you in the past but are no longer serving you in the present? I encourage you to pause, think about it, and then make small shifts (if necessary) towards your new way of being.
This month I'm wrapping up programming for AWL, working on the programming for IWD in March and writing a couple new speeches for Black History Month and International Women's Day. Also, gearing up for the Speaking Confidently program that will start in January 2026.
If you are wanting to learn to speak with poise, confidence and effectiveness, you will want to be a part of this 8 week program!
Please see details in this Newsletter. I continue to see clients—CHANGE ALERT—as of January 1, 2026 our location for in person coaching and counselling sessions will change. Please be on the look out for more information. Virtual sessions will continue as usual.
Have a wonderful holiday season!
With gratitude, Jen
Now let's check in with Melissa.
December has been and will continue to be a month of facilitation and building partnerships!
Welcome back GoodLife Fitness as our newest season partner! We're also thrilled to thank Delta Hotels for their continued support as a returning sponsor for the 2025-2026 speaker season.
This month was full of facilitation and preparing for next month's sessions:
- Internal communication training
- Selling to the Internal Customer
- Emotionally Intelligent Sales
- Decision Making and Operational thinking
I'm excited to be hosting a session with the Stratford Chamber of Commerce in early January focused on Emotionally Intelligent Selling and Everyday Influence! All of this while also getting ready to head back to Africa in January to provide entrepreneurship training to young women!
Talk soon!
Mel
P.S.: Looking ahead to early 2026, Jen and I are available for speaking engagements including:
- Black History Month talks (February 2026)
- International Women's Day presentations (March 2026)
- Equity-focused leadership talks throughout the year
We also continue to offer custom workshops, keynotes, and leadership development for companies and communities that want to elevate their impact.
đź“© Reach out to us at hello@awlpartners.com to explore what's possible.
Still haven't subscribed to Double Take? What are you waiting for? 🎙️
We're thrilled to share that we now have an official podcast! Join Jen and Melissa for Double Take with AWL Partners. Leadership advice that's too human-centered doesn't scale. Advice that's too business-focused burns people out. Our podcast gives you both: Jen and Melissa tackle the challenges that matter most with strategies that honor people AND drive performance.
Perfect for your commute, your morning coffee, or that midday reset you didn't know you needed.
🎧 Subscribe now on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AWL-Partners
Because leadership development doesn't have to wait for your next professional development day. Sometimes it just takes 30 minutes and a good conversation.
5 Opportunities to Grow Your Confidence & Influence This Month
1. Actually, I Can Leadership Hub Update: November Let's Get Intentional Replay & Resources
Available Now | Exclusive Hub Access
Missed the December Let's Get Intentional session with Jessie Jones, Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) and the founder of JJRT?
In this session Jessie shared her talk Midlife Magic where attendees learned about redefining purpose, identity, and possibility as women in their 40s, 50s, and beyond who are navigating transitions — whether it’s menopause, career change, caregiving, or rediscovering themselves.
Missed the session? Want to get a refresh in your own time?
đź“Ť Login to the Hub to access the replay
Not a Hub member yet? Explore individual and Employee Resource Group/Team membership options here → INDIVIDUAL or TEAM
SIGNUP for the next Let's Get Intentional - Navigating Career Growth in a Time of Change with Unnati Singhania here: REGISTER TODAY!
2. Leadership Accelerator Replay Library – All Five Sessions Now Available
Missed the last 5-Day Leadership Accelerator? We've got you covered.
The complete Leadership Accelerator Replay Library is now ready, featuring all five recorded sessions, each paired with its companion resource.
This isn't just about watching videos. It's about having a complete, self-paced roadmap for strengthening your leadership across all five AWL Pillars.
Here's what's inside:
Day 1: Rewire Your Confidence Loop
Shift your inner dialogue and reclaim your voice. Learn to silence the inner critic and build unshakeable confidence that lasts.
Day 2: Emotionally Intelligent Change
Lead with empathy through uncertainty. Discover how to navigate transition without burning out your team or yourself.
Day 3: Emotionally Intelligent Sales
Influence outcomes with trust and integrity. Transform how you motivate, recommend, and create alignment.
Day 4: Practicing E.Q.U.I.T.Y.
Build inclusive, psychologically safe teams. Create workplaces where people feel safe to contribute, innovate, and belong.
Day 5: Emotionally Intelligent Leadership
Model sustainable leadership for the long game. Develop the systems and mindsets that prevent burnout while driving results.
Each session includes:
- Full video recording
- Video Supplements
- Reflection exercises
- Application strategies you can use immediately
đź“Ť Get instant access to the Leadership Accelerator Replay Library: GET FREE ACCESS
We'd love to hear from you:
- Which session resonated most with you?
- What's one insight you're already putting into practice?
Remember, the best leaders don't just learn, they apply.
3. CLOSING SOON: Volunteer Applications for International Women's Day 2026
Be part of Southwestern Ontario's largest women's empowerment conference!
We're filling the remaining spots for our 20-person volunteer team to help create an unforgettable experience for 700+ attendees.
What you'll gain:
- Behind-the-scenes access to an incredible leadership event
- Networking opportunities with 700+ women leaders and allies
- Exclusive volunteer appreciation benefits
- The satisfaction of supporting women's leadership development for FREE!
đź“Ť Sign up to volunteer: SIGN UP HERE
Questions? Email us at HELLO@AWLPARTNERS.COM with "IWD Volunteer" in the subject line.
Let's make history together. Because the future is NOW and we're building it with intention, inclusion, and incredible people like you.
4. Early Bird Ends in 13 Days: Save Up to 30% on IWD 2026 Tickets
📅 Monday, March 2, 2026 | 🕰️ 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM | 📍 RBC Place London
Sponsored by Lerners LLP. Presented by All Women L.E.A.D.
Save big when you register early for Southwestern Ontario's largest women's empowerment conference!
Early Bird Special (Until December 31st, 2025):
Use code EARLYBIRDFIN26 to save!
- All tickets: 13% off
- Actually, I Can Leadership Hub Members: 30% off
- Tables of 8: Pay for 7, get 1 free
This full-day experience features:
- The inaugural She L.E.A.D.S. Awards celebration
- Inspiring keynote speakers including Isabelle Hudon (President & CEO of BDC), Marci Ien (Minister for Women and Gender Equality), and more
- Practical workshops and actionable tools
- Networking with 700+ women leaders, entrepreneurs, and allies
- Vendor expo featuring local women-owned businesses
- Lunch included
A few vendor tables are still available! Secure your spot to connect with 700+ engaged professionals ready to discover what you offer.
đź“Ť Get your tickets now: TICKETS
đź“© Vendor table inquiries: HELLO@AWLPARTNERS.COM
The future is NOW. Will you be part of it?
5. You can do the work. Why can't you sell it? - Join a 2026 Emotionally Intelligent Sales & Speaking Confidently Cohort
Are you a business owner, entrepreneur, or sales leader who can coach, strategize, and deliver, but still hesitates when it comes to selling or speaking about yourself?
You're not alone.
This January, we're launching small-group, high-impact cohorts designed for leaders who want to sell with confidence, speak with clarity, and build the mindset that supports real revenue growth.
Choose your path:
- Emotionally Intelligent Sales (6-week cohort)
- Speaking Confidently (6-week cohort)
- Combination Package (our most popular option)
Research shows leaders who strengthen EQ and communication skills see higher sales success and greater confidence in high-pressure settings.
Cohorts begin January 2026. Limited to 10-12 participants per cohort for maximum impact.
Interested? Email us with "Sales," "Speaking," or "Combo" to hello@awlpartners.com and we'll send you the full details, dates, curriculum, pricing, and next steps.
You've built something worth sharing. Let's help you sell it, say it, and sustain it with confidence.
She Came for Coaching. She Stayed for Both.
The first three sessions were pure strategy.
We built her 90-day leadership plan. Identified her communication gaps. Created scripts for difficult conversations. She left each call energized, with clear next steps.
Then session four happened.
She logged on and said, "I don't know why, but I can't seem to execute anything we talked about. I know what to do. I just... can't."
That's when we shifted.
Because what looked like a strategy problem was actually a belief problem. Years of being told she was "too much" had created a pattern: shrink, apologize, minimize. No amount of communication scripts would fix that until she processed where it came from.
So we integrated both: counselling to heal the pattern, coaching to build the new one.
Within two months, she wasn't just implementing the strategies, she was creating her own.
Here's what we know at AWL: One helps you grow. The other helps you heal. Leadership requires both.
Coaching is for when you're ready to move forward, refining your goals, building strategy, and stepping into your next level.
Counselling is for when you need to pause and process, navigating challenges like stress, grief, or burnout so you can lead from a place of wholeness.
You don't have to choose. Real leadership isn't just about performance, it's about presence, clarity, and capacity.
đź“© Ready to explore what integrated support could look like for you or your team?
Let's talk: BOOK A FREE INTAKE PHONE CALL or EMAIL US
Because the best leaders know: growth isn't just about getting better at what you do. It's about becoming more of who you are.
You've seen the what, now let's choose what's next with intention.
We believe confidence isn't something you either have or don't have, it's something you build.
This month, we've practiced what it means to create safety, strengthen trust, and build the foundation that makes confident leadership possible.
Because the future isn't built on perfect leadership.
It's built on honest leadership.
The kind that says "I'm still learning" while showing up anyway.
The kind that creates space for others to grow.
The kind that knows confidence starts from the inside out.
So here's your reminder:
â–¶ You don't have to be the most confident person in the room to be the most valuable
â–¶ Building trust in yourself is the first step to building trust with others
â–¶ And you're not building this alone, we're creating this foundation together, every step of the way
Until next time, stay committed to your growth, stay curious about what's possible, and stay connected to the confidence you're building.
Rooting for your growth, always,
The AWL Partners Team
We help people and teams grow smarter with their emotions to work better and achieve more.
P.S. Missed last month's newsletter? Catch up here and keep the momentum going: LAST EDITION
Actually I, Can Hub Member Business Spotlight:
đź“Ł Calling All Actually, I Can Hub Members!
Your Business Deserves the Spotlight 🌟
Dear Hub Members,
Every month, we celebrate the incredible businesses within our community through our newsletter's Member Business Spotlight and we want to feature YOU!
This is your opportunity to:
✨ Share your story with thousands of leaders across our network
✨ Showcase your services to a community that believes in supporting each other
✨ Amplify your impact and connect with potential clients who align with your values
✨ Celebrate the amazing work you're doing (because you deserve to be seen!)
What we need from you:
- A brief description of your business (150-200 words)
- What makes your approach unique
- Current offerings or upcoming programs
- How people can connect with you
- Optional: A special offer for our community
We're looking for businesses to feature in our December and early 2026 newsletters.
First come, first featured!
Ready to shine? Simply send us an email and we'll send you the quick details form.
Because your success is our success, and this community rises together.
đź“© Email us at hello@awlpartners.com with subject line: "Member Spotlight - [Your Business Name]"
Let's celebrate what you're building!
Because leadership shouldn’t feel like you’re carrying it all alone.
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