Becoming a REBL: Rooted, Expansive, and Brave Leadership for Modern Professionals

In today's fast-paced professional landscape, finding balance between ambition and wellbeing can feel like an impossible task. In our May Mentorship Circle Meet-up, our speaker Rebecca Thomas offered a refreshing framework for approaching this challenge—one that empowers professionals to lead with intention and authenticity.

The REBL Approach: Rooted, Expansive, Brave Leadership

Rebecca introduced us to the concept of being a REBL in our professional and personal lives: someone who is Rooted in self-awareness, Expansive in their thinking, and Brave in their actions. This powerful framework provides a roadmap for those seeking to advance their careers while maintaining their wellbeing.

Rooted in Self-Awareness

"Self-awareness is the foundation of intentional leadership," Rebecca emphasized as she shared her personal journey of discovery. After experiencing burnout in her own career, she realized the importance of understanding her core values and strengths.

Being rooted means:

• Recognizing your unique value and contributions

• Understanding your personal strengths (Rebecca highlighted the insights she gained through StrengthsFinder)

• Developing clear boundaries that honor your needs

• Practicing self-regulation when facing challenges

Expansive in Perspective

Rebecca encouraged participants to become more expansive in their thinking—to reimagine rules, challenge assumptions, and create new possibilities.

"Growth happens when we're willing to step beyond our comfort zones," she noted. "But expansion doesn't mean overextending ourselves. It means thoughtfully broadening our horizons in ways that align with our values."

This expansive mindset includes:

• Being curious about different perspectives

• Questioning limiting beliefs about what's possible

• Seeking opportunities for continuous learning

• Building meaningful connections across different areas

Brave in Action

Perhaps the most impactful part of Rebecca's presentation focused on courage in leadership. Several participants shared their struggles with speaking up in meetings, setting boundaries, and advocating for themselves.

Rebecca offered practical strategies for cultivating brave leadership:

• Practice speaking up, even when it feels uncomfortable

• Use nonviolent communication techniques when addressing conflicts

• Choose growth over comfort when faced with challenges

• Practice self-compassion during the process of change

A Continuous Journey

As Rebecca reminded us, becoming a REBL leader isn't a destination—it's a continuous journey of growth and self-discovery. By staying rooted in our values, expansive in our thinking, and brave in our actions, we can create careers that are both successful and sustainable.

"The goal isn't perfection," Rebecca emphasized, "but rather intentional progress toward the professional and personal life you truly want."

This blog post is based on our May 2025 Women's Mentorship Circle session with Rebecca Thomas. For more information about our mentorship circles, check out our upcoming events: https://www.empoweringwomeninindustry.com/virtual-events

You can watch Rebecca's Virtual Meetup on our new Members' Portal, Mighty Networks!