Caught in the Chaos: Why Leaders Need to Pause and “Get to the Balcony”

"This is Water. But Get to the Balcony."

This title blends the metaphor of unconscious immersion (from David Foster Wallace’s famous parable about awareness) with the leadership concept of stepping back for perspective, insight, and reflective awareness—perfect for encouraging thoughtful observation in the midst of daily busyness or stress.

In our latest visual post, we bring to life a scene all too familiar to today’s professionals—emails flying in, meetings stacking up, and the frantic pace of multitasking that leaves little room to think, let alone lead.

In the middle of this whirlwind, there’s a question we forget to ask:What is water?

It’s a metaphor from David Foster Wallace’s famous parable—fish so immersed in their environment they don’t even realize they’re in water. For many leaders and professionals, “water” is the invisible current of busyness, pressure, and constant reaction that defines daily work life.

That’s where the leadership principle of “getting to the balcony” comes in.

💡 What Does It Mean to Get to the Balcony?

The “balcony” is the space of reflection, perspective, and strategic thinking. It’s stepping out of the dance—away from the noise—and seeing the bigger picture.

In the video, we show one individual caught in the flash-flurry of modern work: typing, talking, juggling. But the unspoken tension? No pause. No breath. No space to think.

Leadership isn’t just about doing more—it’s about knowing when to pause, observe, and course-correct.

🌊 This Is Water. But Get to the Balcony.

At L2M Coaching, we help leaders recognize the water they’re swimming in—and guide them to the balcony so they can lead with clarity and purpose.

Whether you're a first-time manager, seasoned executive, or aspiring leader, this message applies to you:

• Take a moment to reflect.

• Create space for intentional action.

• Lead from awareness, not autopilot.

  
  

🛠 Want Help Making Space?

If you're ready to get out of the water and onto the balcony, let's talk.Explore our Leadership Coaching Circles, 1:1 coaching packages, and self-leadership resources—each designed to help you reclaim clarity in a world of chaos.

📩 Book a discovery session at www.L2MCoaching.com📽️ Or watch the video now and ask yourself: Am I swimming in water that I haven’t named yet?