The Importance of Not Forgetting Your Inner Child

I was inspired by an interview with actor Brian Cox, who spoke about nurturing the child within us. His words serve as a powerful reminder that the child we protect becomes the leader we grow into.

Leaders often carry immense pressure—to perform, to decide, and to shoulder the weight of responsibility. Over time, many begin to take themselves very seriously. With that seriousness comes a subtle shift: they start to identify with their role. The job becomes more than what they do—it becomes who they are.

In such environments, the idea of “protecting your inner child” can feel indulgent, even irrelevant. But in reality, it’s far from a luxury—it’s essential. Staying connected to your inner child is key to long-term effectiveness, empathy, creativity, and authentic leadership.

The inner child represents our core emotional self—shaped by early experiences, instincts, fears, and dreams. When we protect and nurture this part of ourselves, we stay emotionally grounded, self-aware, and more capable of leading with empathy. Why? Because we remain in tune with our own vulnerability—and therefore, more attuned to others.

The more we focus on performance and outcomes, the less space we allow for creativity, curiosity, and play. As children, we’re natural wells of imagination and wonder. That part of us doesn’t disappear—it gets buried under pressure and expectations. Reconnecting with it lets us think beyond the conventional, embrace uncertainty, and approach challenges with openness instead of defensiveness.

We’ve seen some of the world’s most visionary leaders thrive by staying curious and playful. Think of Steve Jobs or Richard Branson—both known not just for innovation, but for maintaining a bold, imaginative spirit throughout their careers.

Ultimately, protecting your inner child allows you to lead with an authentic voice. It grounds you in truth and keeps your leadership real. And people follow leaders who feel real.

I believe the best leaders aren’t the ones who “grew up” the fastest. They’re the ones who never lost touch with who they were before the world told them who to be.

Protecting your inner child isn’t about regression—it’s about reconnection. To joy. To truth. To the creative spark that made you want to lead in the first place.

So protect that part of you—not just for your own sake, but for the people who count on you to lead with heart.

E