Welcome back to The Messy Success Podcast! In this short and powerful episode, Elizabeth shares a metaphor that dropped in during a moment of deep self-awareness: the difference between being a mirror and being a container. Understanding the difference between these two roles — and knowing when to step into each — can completely transform how you lead, coach, communicate, and navigate relationships. This episode offers a simple but profound lens for entering the new year with clarity, curiosity, and deeper emotional intelligence. If you love metaphors, introspective leadership, or leveling up your coaching skills… this one’s going to land.

SHOW NOTES:

01:14 — The difference between a mirror and a container

02:30 — Why this concept clicked after feeling “unsolicited advice”

04:01 — What it means when someone’s “feedback portal” is not open

05:20 — A real-life example: noticing someone’s language patterns

06:45 — The question Elizabeth uses to discern what’s needed

08:13 — The risk of asking, “Do you want feedback?” too soon

09:32 — How this helps leaders become safer, more skilled coaches

11:10 — The habit that creates deeper rapport and trust

12:04 — Why confusion is actually a powerful learning signal

13:15 — What triggered this reflection in Elizabeth’s own life

15:02 — Entering 2026 with emotional intelligence and curiosity

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