Let’s play a little game: If you could be a fly on the wall anywhere, where would you choose?
Would it be during a high-stakes boardroom meeting, where decisions ripple through industries? Or maybe at that family dinner where everyone is smiling for the photos, even though you can sense some under-the-table drama brewing? Or perhaps you’d sneak into your boss’s office, just to hear what they really think of you when you’re not around.
Now, let’s think about your answer. Sure, it might seem like a fun mental exercise, but here’s the twist: your answer might be pointing to an area of growth—or a blind spot—you’ve been avoiding.
The Fly’s Eye View: What Does Your Choice Say About You?
1. If you’d choose the boardroom:
If you’re drawn to the boardroom, I see something in you. Maybe it’s that quiet (or not-so-quiet) nudge to take charge, make decisions, and be the one who’s driving things forward. If you feel like you’ve been holding back, waiting for permission or the “right time,” I’m here to tell you: that time is now.
You have something valuable to contribute, and it’s time to step into that leadership role. Don’t wait for the invitation—own your space. Leadership is not about waiting for someone to call on you, it’s about recognizing your own power and stepping up, even if you don’t have everything figured out yet. You belong in that room.
2. If you’d choose the family dinner:
Maybe you’re the type who’d choose the family dinner, and I get it. Family dynamics can be tricky, and there’s usually a lot more going on under the surface than people let on. If that’s where you’d want to listen in, it could be a sign that you’ve been avoiding some tough conversations—whether it’s with family, friends, or even yourself.
The thing is, leadership isn’t just about business. It’s also about how you show up in your
relationships, especially the difficult ones. Sometimes the best thing you can do is lean into those uncomfortable conversations, address the things that have been left unsaid, and create space for real, honest connections. Leadership requires vulnerability and a willingness to face the messiness head-on.
3. If you’d choose your boss’s office:
Curious about what your boss thinks of you when you’re not around? I get it—we’ve all been there. If this is your pick, it might be because you’re craving more clarity about your role or how you’re being seen. Instead of wondering and assuming, why not take charge of that conversation yourself?
Ask for feedback. Have that conversation with your boss. Take the lead in shaping how you’re perceived. Leadership isn’t about waiting for others to define you, it’s about being proactive, showing up with confidence, and owning your strengths—whether anyone else notices them or not. You’re the one in control of your narrative.
4. If you’d choose a random stranger’s house just to see how “normal people” live:
Okay, this one’s a bit quirky, but bear with me. If your first instinct is to sneak into a stranger’s house just to see how “normal” people live, it could point to something deeper: the tendency to compare your life to others. Here’s the truth, though—there is no such thing as “normal,” and comparing yourself to someone else doesn’t help anyone.
As a leader, you have to stop measuring your progress against others. Your journey is uniquely yours. Instead, focus on where you are, where you want to go, and what steps you need to take to lead yourself in the direction of your goals. Your path is yours alone, and there is power in owning it.
The Truth About Being a Fly
Here’s the kicker: flies don’t really contribute much of value. They just hover around, observing and occasionally buzzing annoyingly close to your ear. Don’t be like a fly in your own life. If you constantly wish to be a passive observer instead of an active participant, it’s a signal something needs to change. True leadership requires stepping off the wall and into the arena.
Whether it’s becoming a leader, facing uncomfortable truths, or simply embracing your unique path, the “fly on the wall” perspective can provide clarity—but only if you use it to take action.
My Fly Moment
If I had the chance to be a fly on the wall, I’d probably choose the moment someone reads this post. Do they nod along, chuckle at the humor, or just scroll past? But here’s the thing: I don’t need to know. Leadership means trusting your purpose and moving forward, even without immediate validation.
I write because I love connecting with people, sparking new ideas, and inspiring action. If I waited around to overhear validation, I’d never hit “post.”
Your Turn
So, where would you choose to be a fly on the wall, and what does that tell you about where you are in life—or the leader you’re becoming? Drop a comment below or use this as an opportunity to take action on what you discover.
And if you’re still unsure, just remember this: flies might eavesdrop, but they only live for about 28 days. Don’t waste your precious time hanging out on the wall.
Keep buzzing forward, friends.
–
Dr. Tomi Mitchell
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