I refused to let cancer control the conversation. So, I named the two masses that were diagnosed as two different kinds of cancers: Thelma and Louise. This allowed me to avoid becoming a victim in my state of mind while helping colleagues discuss my health more easily because navigating moments of immense pain at work feels like a no-no. But, it’s not. Sharing the highs and lows of your life is part of emotionally intelligent leadership and a key component to cultivating trust among your team. EI Pro-tip: Lean into Authoritarian Leadership during times of immense grief. Share the news, and the next steps, don’t leave any room for uncertainty. Naming my diagnosis also helped the providers whose faces always looked so distraught, I appreciated how much they cared about me. I wondered how they did this patient after patient. Thelma and Louise helped them find lightness and ease when it came time to speak their wisdom. Laughter improved my relationship with my providers.The act of going along with calling my masses Thelma and Louise gave us an inside joke. I felt heard and respected. And, therefore, I wanted to listen and follow my doctor’s advice even more. I am so thankful to every PCP, RN, NP, Oncologist, Breast Surgeon, Radiologist, and Infusion Nurse who helped me and laughed with me. Now I’m dedicating my speaking business to helping healthcare professionals learn emotional intelligence to prevent burnout and improve patient experiences and outcomes. #emotionalintelligence #oncologist #breastsurgeon #healthcareworkers #RN #NP #healthcareprofessionals #TexasMedicalCenter #breastcancersurvivor #professionalspeaker #publicspeaker #patientadvocate #patientengagement