We are living through an era of extraordinary technological advancement. Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we work, think, and connect. It helps us process vast amounts of information, automate decisions, and optimize performance. But in the midst of this digital acceleration, there’s a growing need to reconnect with something much older, and much more human—our Body.

Leadership is not only about what we do—it’s about how we perceive, relate, and feel. One of the most powerful pathways to growth as a leader of our lives is through reflection, not just in our minds but in our bodies.

The way we react to others—whether in admiration or discomfort—is often a mirror of what lies within us. When we start to pay attention to these reactions somatically, we unlock a deeper layer of awareness, one that leads to more grounded, authentic leadership.

“Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.” — Viktor E. Frankl

Too often, we operate on autopilot—reacting instinctively to stress, conflict, or pressure. But when we pause, even for a brief moment, we create the opportunity to:

• Shift from reaction to intentional action

• Replace frustration with clarity and purpose

• Cultivate personal growth and resilience

A few months ago, I attended Google Zurich’s 20th anniversary celebration. I’m not sure why I was invited—perhaps because I live in Zurich and work in AI—but I showed up with curiosity and a sense of gratitude. The event was thoughtfully organised: guest speakers, engaging discussions, and a reception with a “flying buffet”—waitstaff carrying trays through the crowd, offering small bites and slices of birthday cake.

I come from a family that deeply valued education and intellect. Books were a part of our daily life—my father was rarely seen without one, and my mother regularly brought new stories home for me to read.

I was raised in an environment where knowledge and clear reasoning were core values, and this foundation shaped the way I approached life and work.

Leadership rests on three essential pillars: Skills, Intelligence, and Self. While skills and intelligence can be developed, what sets great leaders apart is the embodiment of the Self.

In the worlds of business, science, and tech, success is often defined and measured by the Mind — logic, strategy, and intellect take centre stage. Yet the Self is never separate from the Body.

Through our Body

• we sense others and the environment

• express moods and emotions

• generate interpretations and beliefs

• interpret historical experiences

• take action towards the future

As a child, movement was my freedom. Ballet at the state conservatory wasn’t just a discipline—it was how I told the truth without words. But like many, I traded that truth for stability. I pursued academic success, earned a PhD, and built a thriving international corporate career.

Years later, Argentinian tango found me, reigniting a part of myself I had long silenced.

Even the most accomplished leaders in science, tech, and business are quietly struggling with:

• Decision fatigue and overthinking

• Chronic tension, burnout, and stress

• A sense of disconnection from purpose and inner clarity

• Pressure to perform that leaves no room for presence or creativity

• Self-doubt masked by overachievement

From an early age, we’re taught to prioritize logic over intuition, facts over feelings. In business, science, and tech, external validation often takes precedence over inner knowing.

Over time, we disconnect from our bodies, intuition, and authentic leadership. 

But when we silence our inner truth, we lose access to creativity, confidence, and purpose. This disconnection can manifest as:

• Self-doubt and second-guessing decisions

• A fear of taking up space

• A sense of emptiness or lack of direction

• Strained relationships, both personal and professional

• Chronic tension, exhaustion, or burnout