Who Am I as a Manager?

There’s a universal question that surfaces for all of us at some point: Who am I?

It’s ancient, human, and deeply personal. We often explore it when life pushes us into new territory—when we become parents, take on new roles, or stand at crossroads.

This week this question has come up several times in different guises with conversations with clients and connections. In exploring this question I turned to my journals looking for patterns in my own reflections on this question. I noticed that my own response has changed over the past year. As I learn and grow the who I am being changes and flows in alignment. Beyond titles and responsibilities, this quetion invites us to reflect on the essence of how we show up for others.

In leadership, this question can take on a unique form: Who am I as a manager?

Am I the kind of manager who:

• Cultivates trust and psychological safety?

• Listens deeply and without judgment?

• Inspires people to bring their whole selves to work?

• Sets clear boundaries and expectations while remaining approachable?

• Recognises when to challenge and when to support?

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There’s no single template for what a manager “should” be. Yet, there are qualities that seem universally valued—curiosity, emotional intelligence, resilience, humility, and courage.

Being a manager isn’t just about leading tasks or delivering KPIs. It’s about holding space for others to thrive, to grow, to experiment, and to fail safely. It’s about knowing when your team needs structure and when they need freedom. It’s about understanding yourself, so you can better understand others.

So, when was the last time you paused and asked yourself:Who am I as a manager—and who do I want to be?

The beauty of leadership is that you have choices in who you are being and the answers will evolve as you do.

In my work, I help leaders and managers explore questions like this—gently, curiously, and with a sense of possibility. If you're feeling called to rethink how you lead, or if you’re navigating change and want to lead more intentionally, I’d love to support you. One way of doing that is through The Number 8 Club a community of leaders that meet once a month to collectively Rethink Leadership. Interested? More coming soon or message me hello@carrollmacey.coach

✨ You’re invited to connect, reflect, and grow—at your own pace.