In the middle of my corporate leadership career, I got hit with some honest feedback that changed the way I lead.
A trusted team member pulled me aside and said, “Carmen, people call you Cruella DeVille at the other branch.”
She meant it kindly—but the words stung. And what she said next stung even more:
“You have high standards, and you care deeply—but not everyone sees that.”
At the time, I thought I was being a great leader: setting clear goals, holding people accountable, showing up every day with energy and structure. But what I wasn’t doing—was listening.
After getting over my own ego and defensiveness and doing some real self inquiry – I made two core changes that transformed not just my leadership, but our team:
1. I Led with Listening
I started asking more than telling.
“What do you see?”“Where are we stuck?”“What could we do differently?”
This opened the door to collaboration and trust.
2. I Created Feedback Loops
I invited my team to help me grow through “mini 360’s” (often) —with questions like:
“What’s one thing I missed?”“Where did I get in the way?”
Over time, this shifted the culture. My team felt heard. Ideas flowed. Ownership grew.
I also stopped trying to do it all. I let go of control, embraced curiosity, and—yes—even took lunch breaks. We laughed more. Innovated more. And built something better—together.
This shift from control to connection is now core to how we coach leaders at The Amplified Life Company. One of our core beliefs is that as leader your next level often takes turning the mirror back on yourself because, personal development is the foundation of dynamic leadership, meaningful relationships, optimal health, and extraordinary business outcomes.
If you’re ready to listen deeper, reflect often, and lead with connection—start today.
Let’s connect!
Carmen Ohling
CEO & Founder The Amplified Life Company