An Invitation to a Concept to Elevate Your Authentic Leadership Presence

Success in leadership and personal growth often comes down to a willingness to step in, speak up, and take action—even when it feels uncomfortable. I like to think of this mindset as the “Shame on Me If I Don’t Zone.”

This concept is simple but powerful. If you see something that could impact a team member’s growth or success, and you choose not to address it, you’re doing them—and yourself—a disservice. The “Shame on Me If I Don’t Zone” is a mindset shift that encourages accountability, leadership, and positive impact in every conversation.

How Does It Work?

The “Shame on Me If I Don’t Zone” is about recognizing moments where you have the opportunity to help someone grow—and acting on it. It is an opening to a conversation that encourages an immediate impact of care. 

Example: When you recognize an opportunity for growth driven by some evidence of an opportunity, begin the conversation with – “ Shame on me if I don’t bring it to your attention, because I care about your continued growth.” This can be applied to any conversation as it relates to anything related to performance and growth. 

Recently, I was coaching a leader who applied this concept with one of their team members. Instead of avoiding a difficult discussion, they stepped into the moment and shared honest, constructive feedback. The result? A breakthrough in performance and trust.

How You Can Use It

Here’s how to incorporate the “Shame on Me If I Don’t Zone” into your leadership and daily interactions:

1. Recognize the Moment by being in the moment

When you see something that could be an obstacle to someone’s growth—whether it’s a limiting belief, an ineffective habit, or a missed opportunity—acknowledge it. Ask yourself: “If I don’t speak up, will I regret it later?”

2. Frame It as an Invitation –

Example of an email (subject – continued growth versus performance discussion) 

Instead of making it feel like criticism, approach it as a collaborative conversation. You’re not telling someone what to do; you’re inviting them to explore a potential blind spot or barrier together with care and compassion.

📌 Example: “I’ve noticed something that I think could help you grow. Would you be open to taking what I see as some very valuable time discussing it together?” 

3. Follow Through with Care and Clarity

If you choose to step into the “Shame on Me If I Don’t Zone,” do it with sincerity and a growth-focused mindset.

📌 Example: “I care about your success, and I’d love to share something that might help. Let’s talk about it and agree on a path forward together.”

4. Encourage Others to Use It

This concept isn’t just for leaders—it’s for everyone. When team members adopt the mindset of responsible accountability, it creates a culture of trust, growth, and high performance.

Why This Works

• It builds trust: People appreciate honesty when they know it comes from a place of care hardwired to the heart!
• It drives growth: The best breakthroughs often come from outside perspectives.
• It strengthens teams: When everyone embraces open communication, collaboration improves while also building trust.
• IT IS THE RIGHT THING TO DO

I’ve used this concept many, many times, and I encourage you to do the same. It’s a simple shift that can create extraordinary results.

So, the next time you see an opportunity to help someone grow, try “Shame on me if I don’t zone?”

Let’s step into these moments and lead with courage.

Learn more at mikebarnescoaching.com.