When the Agenda Isn’t the Point

This week, I sat down with a client in Worcester, MA, an organization doing incredible, values-driven work. What was scheduled as a routine project update turned into something far deeper.

For over 40 minutes, we discussed the state of the world: the disturbing rise of ICE abductions in their community (some just blocks from where their team works), the conflict between India and Pakistan, and the overwhelming weight of global unrest. We shared facts and emotions. We explored different viewpoints, all rooted in a shared goal: to create understanding and compassion.

The team is taking bold steps, forming a task force to ensure every team member feels secure and empowered if ICE ever shows up during a case, in court, or on a visit. This isn’t just policy development. It’s human care. It’s trauma-informed leadership.

And while I sat there, part of me watched the clock. “What if we don’t get to the agenda?”

But then I took a breath. I realized: this conversation was the agenda. This is the work. Creating safe spaces for people to think, feel, and process is leadership.

In the final 20 minutes, I asked what they needed. Did they want to reschedule? Should I follow up by email? Or did they want to move through the agenda now?

They chose to move through it, and in just 20 minutes, we got through nearly everything. No, we didn’t go as deep as we might have. But it didn’t matter. The connection was stronger. The team was more present. The work still got done, and we honored the humans doing it.

Here’s the lesson: Leadership isn’t about the checklist. It’s about meeting needs as they arise.

We’re living in unprecedented times. No one has the perfect response. But we can co-create brave spaces. We can lead with compassion.

And we can remember: sometimes, the conversation is the work.