The spark
In today’s blog, Seth says bosses can force people to obey. But great leaders explain the why and build trust. That helps everyone work toward the same goal.
Buckle Up! (Holly-on-the-Go Road‑Trip Edition!)
We met Holly’s friend, Mary Kathryn (MK), on a drive in Texas. She wrote a book called My Dark Garden. She lost much of her sight and life got very hard, but she keeps going with hope and courage. We loved her story.
MK makes her book easy to use: big letters, an audio version with places to breathe, little sound baths, and journaling prompts. She also teaches others how to make spaces easier for people who can’t see well. This is care you can feel.
MK also started Name Your Cane. It’s a friendly group where people share their stories and even give their white canes fun names. It helps people feel seen, brave, and not alone. That’s what real community looks like.
What Seth’s post means for us
“Because I said so” might work for a minute. But it doesn’t build trust. Trust grows when we explain the reason, invite people in, and walk toward the goal together. That works at work and at home with our kids.
A simple playbook for leaders
Say your name and the goal in plain words.
Share the why before the what.
Ask for ideas and listen.
Choose people over rigid rules.
Use gentle structure (like riverbanks) so the team can flow.
Try this this week
Replace one “because I said so” with “here’s why it matters.”
Ask one teammate or child, “What do you think?” and use their idea.
Write one short note: “We learned ___, so we changed ___.”
Why it matters
Rules can control people. Trust grows people. When we choose trust, we build kinder teams, stronger families, and better work. Everyone wins.
Your turn
Where have you heard “because I said so” - at work or at home? How could trust and a clear why make it better? Tell us your story so we can learn together.
