Just because you’re self-aware

doesn’t mean you’re self-correcting.

You can audit yourself all day.

You can reset when you notice drift.

But blind spots are blind spots for a reason.

Today, Shawn names the leadership truth most people resist:

you are not always the best judge of when you’re off track.

Through a moment when a close friend confronted him about becoming impatient and reactive, he reveals how easily drift becomes normalized when no one is willing or permitted to speak up.

This episode reframes accountability as one of the highest forms of care.

Not criticism.

Not control.

But protection of identity.

Because the people who speak truth to you aren’t trying to correct you.

They’re trying to keep you.

In This Episode

* Why self-awareness alone isn’t enough to prevent drift

* How leaders normalize misalignment without realizing it

* The real reason most people won’t speak truth to you

* A story of being called out by someone who cared enough to risk discomfort

* Why accountability isn’t policing behavior, but protecting identity

* How to invite truth without creating defensiveness

✦ Reflection Prompts

* Who in my life sees me clearly enough to notice when I’m off track?

* Have I actually given anyone permission to speak hard truth to me?

* Where might I be rationalizing behavior that isn’t aligned with who I am?

* If someone said “you’re not acting like yourself,” how would I respond?

✦ The Boost (Action Step)

Run the Accountability Question.

Think of 2–3 people who know you well.

People who’ve seen you at your best and your most depleted.

Then ask yourself:

Have I explicitly given them permission to speak truth to me?

If not, reach out this week and say:

“If you ever see me drifting from who I am, I need you to tell me. I trust you.”

Accountability doesn’t happen by accident.

It happens when you invite it.

If you’re ready to surround yourself with the right voices and strengthen the inner authority you’re building, book your No-Cost Identity Clarity Call. We’ll identify where drift is most likely to sneak in and who should be part of your personal accountability circle.

✦ On the Next Episode

Arc 2 Begins: The Sacred No

You’ve rebuilt your identity.You’ve anchored your rituals.You’ve invited truth-tellers into your life.

Now comes the real test.Can you protect it?

Because alignment isn’t lost in chaos.It’s lost when you say yes to things that almost fit.

✦ If Today’s Episode Sparked Something…

* Share it with someone who values honesty over comfort

* Subscribe to Daily Power Boost for rhythm-based identity resets

* Join the R.E.A.L. Mastery™ Hub → realmasteryhub.com

* Apply for Beyond the Boost live coaching

✦ Engage With Me Online

* Instagram: @coachshawnmichael

* TikTok: @coachshawnmichael

* YouTube: @coachshawnmichael

* LinkedIn: @coachinguatemala

✦ References & Influences

* Brené Brown – Dare to Lead on courageous conversations and trust

* Joe Hudson – The Art of Accomplishment on truth-telling as care

* Parker Palmer – Let Your Life Speak on integrity and wholeness

* Jim Collins – Good to Great on disciplined leadership and accountability

* Marshall Rosenberg – Nonviolent Communication on honest, compassionate feedback

With strength and heart,

❤️🔥 Shawn Michael

Stay close.

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