Hey all, welcome back to the Pastel Fireside. Pull up a log. I’ve got marshmallows.
That’s actually not a random detail — it’s the whole point of today’s post.
So what is servant leadership?
In general leadership conversations, you might hear it called “leading by example.” In project management, it means something more specific: instead of directing from the top down, I’m here to support the team and model the behaviors I’d like to see us all bring to the work.
And yes — that’s exactly why I always bring the marshmallows.
Think about it. Marshmallows make the campfire more fun. They give people something to gather around. They facilitate the creation of s’mores — which, let’s be honest, is the whole reason anyone tolerates sitting in the dark. Even when there’s a resource shortage of chocolate or graham crackers (or Biscoff, if you’re joining us from Europe), a perfectly toasted marshmallow on its own is still pretty great.
That’s servant leadership in action. I’m setting the tone by creating a welcoming environment. I’m establishing the norms by consistently showing up with something to offer. I’m not waiting for someone else to make it warm — I’m making it warm.
But it goes beyond snacks.
If you show up to the campfire and we’re running low on chocolate, I’m not just shrugging and saying “that’s not my problem.” I’m telling you about the other store down the road that still has some. I’m keeping track of what we have left so we don’t run out before the night is over. I’m thinking ahead so the experience doesn’t fall apart because of something that was preventable.
That’s what servant leadership looks like on a real project. Removing obstacles before they become problems. Making sure people have what they need to do their best work. Protecting the conditions that let the team thrive — not just the deadline, but the experience of getting there.
Because here at the Pastel Fireside, the goal isn’t just to finish the s’mores. It’s to make sure everyone actually enjoyed the campfire.
So whether we end up making s’mores, singing slightly off-key, or terrifying each other with ghost stories — I want you to have what you need to show up fully.
That’s why I bring the marshmallows.
And if you’d like to have a project manager who is a servant leader, get in touch with me at hello at pastelfirebusinessconsulting.com.
See you at the fire. 🔥