The Folds That Shape Us: Embracing Life’s Permanent Creases
Welcome to the Leadership Vision Podcast, our show helping you build a positive team culture. Our consulting firm has been doing this work for the past 25 years, ensuring that leaders are mentally engaged and emotionally healthy.
On this episode of The Leadership Vision Podcast, we continue our journey through Unfolded: Lessons in Transformation from an Origami Crane with Dr. Linda and Brian Schubring. Our conversation dives into the metaphor of folding—those lived experiences and patterns that leave permanent impressions on our lives. At its heart, this is a conversation about leadership and personal transformation—how knowing our folds can shape the way we lead others and the way we grow ourselves.
Much like origami, where the first few creases determine the shape of what’s possible, our early experiences leave anchor folds that influence how we work, relate, and lead. These folds cannot be ironed out, but they can be understood, embraced, and even repurposed into something new.
What Are “Anchor Folds”?
Brian describes anchor folds as the early experiences that shape who we are—so deeply set that they never go away.
“There are some lived experiences that we have had in our lives that happened early enough and often enough, and those experiences have created this anchor fold… Everything in our life tends to work with that fold, whether we know it or not.” – Brian Schubring
For Brian, one of those folds is a relentless work ethic. Growing up, he learned that rewards came only through effort. That drive still influences how he approaches challenges today. Recognizing that pattern helps him distinguish between healthy persistence and reluctance to change.
Naming Our Folds
Linda reminds us that not every fold is positive or easy. Some folds come from limiting beliefs, painful experiences, or even shame. But rather than trying to erase them, we are invited to name them honestly and without judgment.
“Don’t automatically assume, okay, that’s bad so I need to get rid of it. Leave the fold alone. Let the fold tell the story.” – Dr. Linda Schubring
By naming and listening to our folds, we create space to interpret what they mean. Sometimes they reveal strengths, other times blind spots. Either way, they offer clues for transformation.
Folds as Stories
Every crease, like every scar, carries a story. Some stories highlight resilience; others invite compassion or connection. When shared, they can help others recognize that they are not alone in their struggles.
“Sometimes the folds, the bends and the creases just need our attention. They need some love, some care, some kindness, and some gentleness, because I really believe that those folds are there to teach us something.” – Brian Schubring
Rather than glamorizing or vilifying our experiences, we can accept them as part of the architecture of our lives—texture that adds depth, wisdom, and beauty.
Folding and Refolding
The conversation also highlights that transformation is possible. We are not locked into one shape forever. With courage, we can unfold and refold, creating something new—while still honoring the permanent creases that remain. As Linda notes, children naturally embody this spirit of experimentation. They fold paper planes without fear of imperfection, and in the process, they discover new ways to fly.
For leaders, this means taking risks, testing new approaches, and seeking the perspective of others. Just as origami requires both structure and creativity, leadership requires the balance of honoring what has shaped us while staying open to change.
Reflection Questions
As you reflect on your own folds, consider:
- What are three or four anchor folds in your life?
- Who or what shaped those experiences?
- How do they influence your decisions and leadership today?
- Where might you be resisting transformation because of an old crease?
Conclusion
Our folds don’t define us completely, but they give us the raw material to shape something meaningful. By embracing, testing, and refolding, we can transform ourselves and our teams.
We’d love to hear from you: What folds have shaped your life? And how might they guide your next transformation?
Listen to the full episode for more stories, insights, and practical ways to embrace your own folds.
About The Leadership Vision Podcast
The Leadership Vision Podcast is a weekly show sharing our expertise in the discovery, practice, and implementation of a strengths-based approach to people, teams, and culture. We believe that knowing your Strengths is only the beginning. Our highest potential exists in the ongoing exploration of our talents.
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