I enjoy participating in a variety of exercise.  I don’t see it as a thing to “do” but rather a thing I need and want to help me be clear, calm and fit.   I recently started pilates.  Yes, I know I am late to the pilates party.  I never tried it previously as my exercise was limited to faster higher cardio activities.  Unless it was fast, I really wondered about the point of it!  However, in the last twelve months I have learned about the benefits of incorporating weightlifting, strength and resistance training, running and now pilates.   I am loving the variety.  As a novice in pilates, I quickly realised that the subtle reminders from my instructor about pointing my toes and executing deliberate movements carried lots of useful lessons beyond physical exercise. I learned that there are several parallels between pilates principles and deliberate leadership, which support how intentional actions on the mat can enhance how we lead. 

The Importance of Pointing Toes 

In the world of pilates, one of the constant reminders is to point the toes. Initially perceived as a simple correction to posture, this small adjustment teaches us the significance of attention to detail. The act of pointing toes requires mindfulness and precision, encouraging us to engage not just our limbs but our entire body in a purposeful manner.  This reminds me to fully engage not just my feet for balance, but my core and back, which fully supports the movement and my posture.  When we lead, whilst there may be a specific focus it’s also important to think about what I need and what my team needs to enable the focus.  What else do I need to engage and pay attention to?   

Deliberate and Intentional Movements 

Pilates emphasises deliberate and intentional movements. Each exercise is an opportunity to connect mind and body, fostering a sense of awareness and control. The deliberate nature of pilates movements encourages us to be present in the moment, avoiding rushed actions that compromise form and effectiveness. 

In leadership, the ability to be deliberate and intentional is equally important. Rushed decisions can lead to unintended consequences, whereas a thoughtful and deliberate approach enables you to make informed choices aligned with your vision and values. This deliberate mindset extends beyond decision-making to communication, team dynamics, and overall organisational strategy. 

Translating Pilates Principles into Deliberate Leadership 

For me there are three key principles from pilates that I can easily apply in being a more deliberate leader.  These are mindful presence, precise communication and adaptability. 

Mindful Presence  

Pilates teaches us to be present in every movement. In leadership, being mindful of our surroundings, challenges, and opportunities enables us to make well-informed decisions and respond effectively to evolving situations. 

Precise Communication 

Just as pilates movements require precision, effective leadership communication demands clarity and accuracy. Leaders who communicate with precision can articulate their vision, expectations, and goals more effectively, minimizing misunderstandings within their team. 

Adaptability 

Pilates sessions often involve adapting to various exercises and modifications. In leadership, the ability to adapt to changing circumstances and embrace new perspectives is essential. Leaders who can navigate uncertainties with flexibility and poise inspire confidence within their teams. 

My lessons on incorporating pilates as a form of exercise has shown me that lessons on the mat are deeper than just physical fitness.   It provides valuable insights into deliberate and intentional living. The principles of pointing toes and executing deliberate movements resonate far beyond pilates, offering a frame for effective and intentional leadership. By incorporating these lessons into our daily lives, we can elevate our leadership skills, fostering a more deliberate and purposeful approach to navigating the challenges and opportunities across life. 

My name is Rita Cincotta and I help leaders to lead more deliberately, on purpose and with intention.  I work with Leaders and People and Culture professionals across all industries.  

Here’s how we can work together: 

One on one coaching 

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Leadership development and training 

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