Re-Rooting: What Moving to a New Community is Teaching Me About Leadership (so far)
When I first stepped out of my car in downtown Staunton and saw the mural that reads, “You Belong Here,” it stopped me in my tracks. I had just moved back to the Shenandoah Valley after leaving a 26-year federal career. I wasn’t arriving with a network or a new identity fully formed. I was arriving with a question:
What does belonging mean when you’re starting at the very beginning?
Two months later, I’m still asking that question. And I’m learning that re-rooting isn’t a moment — it’s a practice.
Beginning Again: The Vulnerability of Being New
Despite growing up here, returning here as a 51-year-old starting a new business felt like stepping into unfamiliar territory. I didn’t know who the connectors were yet. I didn’t know the local rhythms of business or community life. I didn’t know the unspoken norms.
And that’s where many leaders find themselves — not only when they move, but when they step into new roles, lead after a reorganization, or join a team with its own history. Being new brings both opportunity and vulnerability.
Following The Wisdom of Others
One of the first things I did was reach out for guidance. I met with the Small Business Development Center advisor, connected with the Chamber of Commerce, and reached out to local economic development leaders and community organizations.
So far, most of my meaningful early steps have come from simply doing what people suggested:
“Talk to this person.”
“Attend this event.”
“Meet this group.”
These conversations are not the end of the journey — they’re the very beginning of understanding what this community values and needs.
Building Roots One Conversation at a Time
I’ve walked into rooms where I knew no one, introduced myself, listened, asked questions, and tried to understand the leadership landscape from the inside out — not the outside in.
I’m still learning.
Still listening.
Still finding my way.
And that’s the point.
Belonging doesn’t come from arriving — it comes from engaging.
Early Acts of Service as a Way to Ground
I’m only beginning to explore where and how I might contribute here. I’ve had early conversations about volunteering and have started dipping my toe into local initiatives. These small acts are helping me feel the ground beneath me — and helping me see where my skills, values, and experiences might meet the needs of this region.
Nothing is set.
Nothing is fully rooted.
This is the planting stage — the very first one.
Leadership Lesson: You Don’t Arrive with Trust—You Grow It
Leaders often assume they should have credibility the moment they enter a role. But credibility isn’t a credential — it’s a relationship.
I’m learning that leadership, like re-rooting, is built through:
showing up consistently
being curious instead of certain
listening deeply
following the wisdom of those who know the landscape
taking early steps to contribute, even if small
These are practices I’m still developing here. And I imagine I’ll be practicing them for a long time.
Returning to the Mural
When I walk past the “You Belong Here” mural now, it feels different.
Not because I fully belong — but because I’m beginning to understand what belonging here might require of me.
It reminds me that belonging is not a destination.
It’s a relationship we build over time — with people, with place, and with purpose.
And I’m just getting started.
