June 5, 2025

Leadership isn’t just what you do when everyone’s watching.
It’s how you show up when no one is there.

Subscribe to Level Up Weekly

Welcome to Level Up Weekly, where I leverage 19 years in Stanford tech to help emerging leaders like you manage up, think strategically, organize, and execute—so you’re seen and heard.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

This June, we’re focusing on what leadership really looks like in the everyday. Not just the big decisions or bold speeches, but the quiet moments that build trust, shape culture, and grow confidence.

Each week, you’ll get practical tips on:
🌱 Coaching instead of fixing
🌱 Speaking up for those not in the room
🌱 Leading through discomfort and ambiguity
🌱 Spotting and amplifying strengths

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Here’s what’s inside today’s issue:
🌱 A surprising leadership moment that starts with zero guidance
🌱 Why the best leaders don’t always step in with answers
🌱 Three practical ways to create space for your team

🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿

Years ago, I was handed a project with no guidance and no idea where to start.

No template.
No playbook.
No instructions.
Just these five words:
“Come back with a proposal.”

At first, I was frustrated — maybe even angry.
I vented to a friend: “I hate him. “

My friend paused. Then said,
“I don’t think he’s trying to be difficult. I think he’s pushing your boundaries. And you’re just uncomfortable - and that’s the point.”

She was right.
So I researched.
Sketched out ideas.
And came back with a plan.

He didn’t tell me what to do. But he gave me space—space to figure it out, and in doing so, build the confidence to lead.

By the time he left, I wasn’t just more capable — I was more self-led.

Here’s the leadership lesson I carry with me:

• Good managers provide answers.
• Great leaders create conditions for growth.

It doesn’t mean being hands-off. It means resisting the urge to jump in too soon.
Because discomfort isn’t always a problem to solve — sometimes, it’s the path to growth.

When I lead, I try to remember three things:

1. Discomfort ≠ Failure.
   ​It’s usually a sign your team is stretching — and that’s a good thing.
   ​
2. Give the “why,” not just the “how.”
   ​Help people understand the bigger context. Then let them build their own path.
   ​
3. Don’t steal the learning.
   ​It’s tempting to swoop in with answers, but when you do, you might rob someone of a breakthrough.

That old boss of mine?
He could’ve given me a framework.
Instead, he gave me something better: ownership.
And that changed everything.

💬 Have you ever had a moment where you grew more because someone didn’t give you the answer?

Connect with Me
​If this resonated with you and you’re wondering how to empower your voice — I’d love to hear from you. Feel free to message me (janet@janet.kim.)

​Are You Truly Heard, Seen, and Valued at Work?​
​Feeling like your contributions aren’t fully recognized? This quick self-audit will help you assess where you stand, uncover hidden gaps, and identify the key steps to increase your influence, get noticed, and advance your career.. Answer these 10 questions honestly, and use your insights to take actionable steps toward greater visibility, influence, and recognition.

Take the 10 Question Self-Audit for Leaders

​ ​ ​ Linkedin

​ ​ ​ Visit the Website