What if the greatest act of service isn’t self-sacrifice—but self-awareness?

This morning, I found myself reflecting on how we make decisions during intense, high-pressure moments—when time is short, emotions are high, and we’re navigating not just one change, but a transition of transitions.

From a leadership and professional lens, I’ve noticed the inner shift I feel when I pause and ask:
“How can I serve?”
That question, asked with openness and intention, often brings clarity and steadiness.

I’ve always been someone who naturally puts others first—it’s how I was raised and how I’m wired. But over time, I’ve done the work to balance that instinct. I’ve had to build self-worth and recognize that while I’m here to serve, I’m also here to live in alignment with what energizes me. To see myself as equal—not less, not more.

Many leadership teachings center on service and I agree. However, here’s the tension I keep exploring:

What if being in service to others—without also considering yourself—is ultimately a disservice to everyone involved?

That thought led to another:
What if true service includes the responsibility to do your inner work—to know your unique skills, your talents, your calling?
Whether you call it Ikigai, Dharma, purpose, or alignment—what if discovering and honoring that is part of your service?

Just like you might have heard the saying, “You must love yourself before you can truly love others”—perhaps the same is true of service.

In professional and leadership contexts (and I say this deliberately—not in life-and-death or wartime scenarios), maybe serving others at the expense of your own values, energy, or calling isn’t noble—it’s unsustainable.

This clarity is a big part of why I transitioned from being a technical leader and engineer into executive coaching. I wanted to serve—but in a way that fully aligned with who I am, and what I do best.

So I’m curious:

How do you, as a leader, make decisions when the stakes are high and transitions are happening fast?
How do you balance service with energy, purpose, and staying true to yourself?

Let’s reflect together.

Warmly,
Sarah