I started the 30 Day Love Challenge in May, and what a journey it has been! Being intentional about a love-first response has been both humbling and super rewarding. I committed that, no matter what, my response would be love—even when it hurts, and perhaps especially when it hurts.
Let’s be real: I’m not perfect. Sometimes I slip up (don’t we all?), but I catch myself quickly and make amends. I see the difference in those email responses where I’d usually want to prove I’m right, but instead, I apply loads of empathy, smiles, and love. And let me tell you, it works.
Love Wins: Two Real-Life Leadership Stories
1. Turning Project Panic Into Partnership
A partner in an upcoming project shared news that could delay our launch. My gut reaction? “How could you be telling me this now, so close to kickoff, after months of planning?” Instead, I paused, asked for a quick call, listened to her concerns, and together we explored solutions. I kept my tone warm and friendly, and we ended with genuine positivity. What started as a potential problem became a moment of real connection—and a better project plan.
2. From Bruised Ego to Bonded Team
A team member posted a comment that stung. My ego wanted to defend myself, but I picked up the phone and called her to understand her perspective. She opened up about her concerns, and I took the chance to express appreciation and empathy. Our different backgrounds—she’s white from Russia, I’m Black from Jamaica—played a role in how we communicated. After our talk, I realised her frustration came from pride in her work and wanting to do well. Our bond deepened. Love won, again.
Fun Fact:
Studies show that leaders who respond with empathy and understanding, especially in conflict, build more resilient and productive teams. According to Harvard Business Review, empathy is the most important leadership skill in today’s workplace.
Lessons in Loving Leadership
Pause Before You React: Science confirms that taking a breath before responding reduces stress and improves decision-making.
Empathy Over Ego: Research shows that empathetic leaders have teams with higher engagement and lower turnover.
Love Is a Choice: Even when you’re right, choosing love over being “right” transforms relationships and outcomes.
Scripture Spotlight ✝️
Colossians 3:12-13 (NIV):“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
Podcast Reflection 🎙️
🎧 Healing With GratitudeThis week on The Entrepreneurial You, I went solo to share the power of gratitude in my own journey. In this episode, I reflect on how stepping away from the digital grind for a 30-day social media sabbatical helped me break free from the pressure of likes and comments, reconnect with my spiritual goals, and rediscover what really matters.
Key Takeaways:
Stepping back can lead to clarity and renewed purpose.
Gratitude is a powerful tool for healing and growth.
Intentional pauses often open doors to new opportunities and deeper fulfillment.
Boundaries & Brilliance: Ongoing Live Masterclass
I’m excited to announce that Boundaries & Brilliance: Mastering Why, Action & EQ is now an ongoing live masterclass series! This experience is designed to help you:
Clarify your purpose and align your actions with your “why”
Set and maintain healthy boundaries that protect your energy and focus
Build emotional intelligence for stronger leadership and relationships
Connect with a community of growth-minded leaders
Ready to live and lead with intention? Sign up at Bit.ly/BoundariesAndBrilliance to join the next session.
Bulletin Board: What’s New With Heneka
Jamaica Chamber of Commerce Nominee!
I’m honored to be nominated for the Entrepreneur Award at the 40th Annual JCC Awards, celebrating innovation and impact across Jamaica’s business community. I can’t wait to get all glammed up for the glitzy ceremony this Thursday!
Elected to the PWD Credit Union BoardI’m excited to serve on the PWD Credit Union Board for the next three years, helping guide our organization’s growth and impact for members and the wider community.
Cohort 5 Graduation & Cohort 6 RegistrationCohort 5 wrapped up on May 31 with a beautiful ceremony featuring our special guest speaker from Dubai. Registration for Cohort 6 is now open—secure your spot today! Plus, a combined graduation celebration will take place during Leadercast Kingston on October 7.
Upcoming Events:
LeadHerShip Cruise 2025: November 3-7, 2025. Set sail for growth, networking, and fun!
Leadercast Kingston: October 7, 2025, at The Summit, Kingston. Early bird tickets are available now at spurropen.com/leadercast12.
Interactive Poll 📊
When faced with conflict, what’s your go-to response?
🔘 Defend your position
🔘 Pause and seek understanding
🔘 Avoid the issue
🔘 Respond with love (or try to!)
👉 Vote now!
Fun Fact of the Week 🤔
Did you know?
According to a 2023 workplace study, teams led by empathetic leaders outperform others by 20% in productivity and 40% in retention. Love isn’t just nice—it’s a leadership advantage!
Resource of the Week 📚
Daring Greatly by Brené Brown
A must-read on the power of vulnerability and wholehearted leadership.
Find Your Why by Simon Sinek
Discover how purpose fuels resilience and loving leadership.
If this inspired you, please share it with a fellow leader or friend. Let’s build a world where love leads, even in the tough moments.
With grace and gratitude,
Heneka Watkis-Porter
Podcast Queen | Leadership Visionary Architect | Coach | Grace to Grow Mentorship Founder
P.S: if you want to stay in the loop and get content on uplevelling, I invite you to join my mailing list here: https://bit.ly/TEYNewsletter