Leading Through Loss: Choosing Love Over Control

Hakim A. Lakhdar is a world-class transformational leadership coach, podcast host, and passionate advocate for self-leadership. In this powerful and deeply personal solo episode of Access Your Leadership, Hakim invites us into a raw and reflective journey through one of the most emotionally intense periods of his life—marked by the passing of his beloved grandmother, his father’s serious injury, and his mother’s painful physical challenges. All in the span of just a few weeks.

In this candid and heartfelt episode, Hakim doesn't just share a story—he models what it means to lead yourself through grief, uncertainty, family dynamics, logistical chaos, and emotional upheaval. He highlights how even the most difficult moments can become beautiful when we choose to lead ourselves with love, presence, and intention.

How do we lead ourselves when everything feels like it’s falling apart? What does it look like to stay grounded in love, service, and perspective when tested? How can our choices in crisis impact the collective energy of a family, a team, or a community?  What happens when we shift from reacting to life to responding with purpose? How can self-leadership become our anchor when we feel completely out of control?

From holding his grandmother’s hand in her final days to helping his mother navigate urgent care visits, to calmly redirecting a funeral procession to the right burial site—Hakim walks us through moment after moment that demanded self-leadership, compassion, emotional regulation, and grace.

This episode is a masterclass in leading from the inside out. It’s about choosing love over fear, responsiveness over reactivity, and presence over panic.

Feedback (I/we want to hear from you):

Did this podcast spark something in you or get you to take action in some way? We’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on our conversation. You can connect with Hakim on Instagram @lakhdar_coaching, LinkedIn: /hakimlakhdar, Twitter @LakhdarCoaching, and Facebook/LakhdarCoaching

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Check out previous episodes of Access Your Leadership on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.