Who's Really in Control? Mastering Your Thinking

[January 28, 2025] by Kathy Scott, PhD, and Bridget Sarikas

Series Introduction

Being a healthcare leader isn’t easy. Between managing teams, making critical decisions, and dealing with high-stress environments, it’s easy to feel like emotions are running the show. This two-part series, "Who's Really in Control: Mastering Your Thinking,” is here to help you step back, rethink how you approach your thoughts, and take control through actions that you can put into practice immediately for yourself and your teams.

We’ll explore how the way you think can transform your leadership style, improve your well-being, and create a positive ripple effect in your organization. Whether you read one blog or both, each piece offers practical insights to help you thrive in even the most demanding situations.

Mastering the Power of Thought in Leadership

Let’s face it—healthcare is tough. The emotional rollercoaster of working in such a high-stakes environment can leave anyone feeling overwhelmed. But what if we told you that your thoughts—not your emotions—are what truly hold the power?

There’s a powerful verse in Proverbs 23:7: "For as a man or woman thinks in their heart, so are they." It’s a reminder that your mindset shapes everything -- how you act, how you lead, and how you experience life.  Stop a minute and think about the power of that statement.

So, what does it mean to "think in your heart"? It’s more than just logic or our reasoning skills. It’s about connecting thoughts with those deeper values, beliefs, and emotions that make up the real you.  It’s different from surface-level thinking, which often reacts to immediate challenges without deeper reflection. Thinking in your heart means living and leading with thoughtful intention and integrity.

Here’s how it’s different from everyday thinking:

• It’s deeper. Thinking in your heart connects your actions to your values. General thinking often just scratches the surface.      

• It’s more purposeful. Thinking in your heart means connecting to your core beliefs and allowing those to guide your decisions, rather than simply reacting to outside pressures.

• It’s impactful. This kind of thinking promotes authenticity and consistency in actions, inspiring trust and collaboration—traits every great leader needs.

How can you start “thinking in your heart?”

• Take a moment to pause and ask yourself: Does this decision align with my values?

• Pay attention to how your emotions are influencing your thoughts. Are they helping or hurting your decisions?

• Think about the bigger picture. Are your actions leading you closer to your goals?

When you practice this kind of intentional thinking, you’ll notice a difference—not just in how you lead but in how your team responds to you.  So keep these tips at hand. Carry them with you on your journey and use them as a guiding light!  

Key Takeaways:

1. Your emotions reflect your thoughts. When you change the way you think, you shift how you feel.

2. Your mindset shapes your leadership. A thoughtful leader inspires clarity, trust, and confidence.

3. Intentional thinking helps you build the strength and focus needed to face challenges with clarity and purpose.

Try this: 

Start by observing your inner dialogue. Are your thoughts helping you become the leader you want to be?  In the next blog, “Mind over Madness:  The Secret to Leading with Clarity Under Pressure,” we’ll dig into the science behind how your thoughts influence your body—and how you can use this connection to become an even stronger leader.

Your thoughts are powerful tools. Use them to take back personal control so you can move from negative thinking and emotions to more positive ones that promote you and your self-worth.  Use them to build the kind of leadership—and life—you truly want.

Titter Time: 

"A giraffe’s coffee would be cold by the time it reached the bottom of its throat. Ever think about that?"

~ Author unknown