Facing Fires: A Lesson in Leadership, Boundaries, and Befriending Dragons

This weekend, I had the rare and exciting experience of putting out a real fire. Equipped with a fire extinguisher, safety gear, and a partner, I was ready to tackle flames as part of an Issaquah Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) exercise. As exciting as it was, the experience turned out to be less "point and spray" like in the movies—and more like a carefully coordinated dance of preparation, teamwork, and precision. Oh, and did I mention the "raging inferno" was in a metal container only a couple of feet in diameter? It might have been a small dragon, but it still roared and required strategy to tame.

We didn’t rush into the flames blindly. Instead, we followed a methodical process: preparing our equipment, working in teams, and ensuring safety measures were in place. When I pointed my extinguisher at the fire and sprayed, I expected the flames to vanish instantly. But the extinguisher was empty—a detail we were warned to check for but that I missed amidst the pressure. Luckily, we were trained for this scenario. I stepped back, swapped extinguishers with my partner, and tackled the fire again. It wasn’t about rushing; it was about staying focused, following the plan, and working as a team. Like befriending a dragon, it required awareness, patience, and trust in the process.

This experience left me reflecting on a larger lesson for life, work, and relationships. In our fast-paced world, it's tempting to dive headfirst into challenges without considering the broader impact of our actions. Whether putting out literal fires or facing the metaphorical dragons in our lives, the same principles apply: thoughtful preparation, clear communication, and a focus on collaboration. Without these, we risk creating chaos instead of calm.

Boundaries and teamwork become our fireproof armor, helping us approach challenges with purpose. Much like a dragon tests your courage before offering its friendship, the fires in our lives push us to grow. When we pause, plan, and act with intention, we’re not just fighting flames—we’re building trust, addressing challenges effectively, and fostering resilience.

The Dragon's Moral: In a world filled with fires and dragons, let’s be the dragon-befrienders who approach life with curiosity, courage, and care. Boundaries and teamwork don’t just keep us safe—they empower us to lead, connect, and thrive, even when the heat is on.

Let this be a reminder to honor your boundaries, lean on your community, and face life’s challenges like a true dragon-befriender. Ready to tame your next fire?

Dragon Steps: Reflect and Rise

• Think about a recent challenge you faced. How did preparation, boundaries, or teamwork help you address it?

• What “fires” in your life might benefit from a more intentional and collaborative approach?

• How can you strengthen your partnerships to better face future dragons together?

A Final Roar

When we apply the principles of Befriending Dragons, Gracious Space, and Radical Candor we create space for trust, growth, and meaningful connection. By fostering community, empathy, and resilience, we lay the foundation for a future built on respect and collaboration. Every thoughtful action we take, no matter how small, contributes to the positive change we strive for.

So let’s take a moment to pause, breathe deeply, and approach both challenges and opportunities with clarity, kindness, and purpose. Together, we can continue to lead with strength and grace.

What ONE thing will you commit to for the next week?

Together, we make a difference.

An Invitation

Let’s grab coffee - virtual or IRL. Build your community - I’m here for you. https://befriendingdragons.com/meet

Stay curious!

Cindy Gross, Founder & CEO of Befriending Dragons

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Cindy

This tale was forged in collaboration with AI, transforming my rambling sparks into a cohesive dragon-worthy story.

Sneak Peak

Get ready to unleash your leadership potential with our upcoming in-person workshop at MoltenWorks: 'Befriending Dragons: Ignite Your Inner Leader'—stay tuned for details! Email me at CindyGross@BefriendingDragons.com to reserve a spot on the waitlist!