What does it take to truly move forward in your leadership journey? How much does developing systems and a structure help in your success? How can your current challenges and setbacks be turned into something good?
I had the privilege of sitting down with Jill Koski who shared her leadership journey with me. Before stepping into environmental leadership, Jill built her career in the arts and cultural sector. But her desire to make a broader, lasting impact led her into the environmental space. Her first CEO role took her away from her hometown, challenging her to stretch beyond what was familiar and comfortable. Eventually, she returned home—this time to lead the Morton Arboretum during its centennial year, a defining moment in the organization’s history.
Jill’s journey illustrates the often-overlooked truth of leadership transitions: growth rarely happens in comfort. For Jill, every “not picked” moment and each professional setback actually turned into an opportunity to reassess her direction and refine her leadership style.
How “comfortable” are you feeling right now? Perhaps you are too comfortable? If growth rarely happens in comfort, what are your current challenges teaching you about your own personal leadership journey? How best can you get out of your comfort zone in order for you to go to the next level in your leadership?
One of the most compelling themes Jill shared in this conversation was the importance of systems, structure, and white space—the intentional pauses leaders create for reflection, creativity, and rest. These systems don’t just sustain organizations; they sustain leaders.
In fact, she talked about the vital, often counterintuitive discipline of saying no. By doing so, leaders create room for strategic focus, empower their teams, and prevent burnout—a lesson especially relevant in the overextended world of nonprofit leadership.
Do you believe that your “no’s” are even more important than your “yes’s”? What do you need to start saying “no” to in order to say “yes” to the right things in your job, your life and your leadership?
Here are some key takeaways to reflect on:
-Leadership is a journey of continuous growth.
-Growth rarely happens in comfort.
-Systems and structure are essential for sustainable success.
-Your “no’s” are even more important than your “yes’s”.
-Saying “no” creates space for greater clarity and empowerment.
-Balancing strengths while managing unfamiliar areas builds resilience.
Listen here to my entire conversation with Jill Koski.