410: One Wild and Precious Life: Leadership Reflections in Uncertain Times

In this solo reflection, Zoë Routh explores leadership and what it means to live a life well lived, inspired by This One Wild and Precious Life by Sarah Wilson and Mary Oliver's The Summer Day.

Against a backdrop of ecological, political, and personal uncertainty, Zoe reflects on languishing, disconnection, and the chrysalis moments of change. Drawing on minimalist living, nature, art, spirituality, and everyday activism, she invites leaders to slow down, pay attention, and ask what truly enlarges their lives.

Ultimately, this episode asks a simple but profound question:

What will you do with your one wild and precious life?

Key Quotes

"Practice is the path. You don't need to know where it leads, only that you can take the next step." - Zoë Routh

"What makes a life worth living will be different for each of us." - Zoë Routh

"The question isn't 'Am I doing this right?' but 'Does this choice enlarge or diminish my life?'" - quotes from Sarah Wilson's book, This One Wild and Precious Life

Questions Asked

1. What does a life well lived mean for me at this stage of my leadership journey?

2. Where am I languishing and what might be quietly emerging beneath it?

3. What is time well spent, really?

4. Which of my daily choices enlarge my life, and which diminish it?

5. What practices help me feel more connected, to myself, others, and the world?

Take Action

1. Choose one small practice that helps you slow down and pay attention, walking, journaling, reading poetry, or time in nature.

2. Apply the filter: Does this choice enlarge or diminish? Use it for decisions big and small this week.

3. Reduce one thing. consumption, noise, or obligation and notice what space it creates.

Key Moments

00:00 Welcome to the Future of Leadership 00:40 Settling into a New Home 01:17 Reflecting on Sarah Wilson's Book 02:24 Mary Oliver's Poem: The Summer Day 03:59 Understanding the Book's Themes 06:38 Sarah Wilson's Background and Philosophy 07:52 Minimalism and Practical Tips 09:53 The Concept of Languishing 10:45 Steps to Happiness and Personal Growth 17:15 The Importance of Art and Spirituality 24:45 Final Reflections and Personal Insights 32:47 Conclusion and Call to Action