Ep 74: Executive Presence and the Upper Limit Problem

What if your biggest barrier to success isn’t external but internal? In this episode, we explore the themes from The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks and how the concept of the upper limit problem shows up in executive leadership. You’ll learn how leaders can unknowingly self-sabotage when things start to feel “too good,” holding themselves back from their full potential. From imposter syndrome to overpreparing, micromanaging, and avoiding tough conversations, these patterns silently chip away at executive presence and impact.

You’ll also discover how executive presence and the upper limit problem intersect, and what it takes to break through to your next level of leadership. We’ll talk about real-world examples, the subtle signs of self-sabotage, and how to shift from doing more to being more. If you’ve ever wondered why bold decisions feel risky, why success sometimes feels uncomfortable, or how to truly step into authentic leadership, this conversation will give you clarity and actionable tools to expand your capacity.

What You’ll Learn In Today’s Episode:

• What the “upper limit problem” really is. 
• How self-sabotage shows up for executives. 
• The link between imposter syndrome and leadership. 
• Why success can sometimes feel “too good.” 
• Common behaviors that undermine executive presence. 
• How fear drives overpreparing and micromanaging. 
• Why avoiding difficult conversations weakens leadership. 
• The shift from doing more to being more. 
• Real-life examples of leaders hitting their upper limit. 
• How to expand your capacity for success and abundance. 

Ideas Worth Sharing:

“Executive presence really is defined as how you are showing up, how you’re carrying yourself, and how others are experiencing your leadership as an executive.” – Elisia Keown Share on X “Executive presence requires confidence and it requires authenticity.” – Elisia Keown Share on X “Your next level of leadership does not require more doing, it requires more being.” – Elisia Keown Share on X

Resources In Today’s Episode:

• Elisia Keown: LinkedIn | Instagram
• The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks

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