As leaders, we all face moments when someone’s words or actions cut deep. Maybe it’s betrayal, criticism, or a costly mistake. But when justice isn’t possible, Leadership becomes about something deeper: how we process it, learn from it, and move forward.

Justice and accountability are not the same. Justice is external; it’s about consequences and what happens to them. Accountability is internal; it’s about reclaiming your power, energy, and integrity, regardless of what they did.

You won’t always get justice. But you can always choose accountability. That’s the moment you take your power back.

When there’s no way to make it right, when justice isn’t possible, accountability looks like this.
You set boundaries: stop giving the situation oxygen.

You practice neutrality: train your nervous system so that their name or memory no longer triggers an emotional response.

You witness yourself.: tell the truth without spin or self-gaslighting.
You cut the cord: stop replaying the story and feeding the energy leak.
Letting go isn’t weakness. It’s strength.

Forgiveness and compassion don’t mean excusing bad behavior. They mean refusing to let it define you. I call this clean compassion; seeing the humanity in someone without justifying the harm. You can let go with love and boundaries, not bitterness.

And that’s Leadership in motion: choosing peace over poison when justice isn’t possible.
When you can discuss painful experiences without harboring anger, you model genuine Leadership. That’s what builds trust with others and with yourself.

What you’ll learn
• The real difference between justice and accountability
• How boundaries and neutrality create inner accountability
• How to stop rumination and reclaim your energy
• Why clean compassion strengthens Leadership
Reflect Forward Questions
1.	Am I seeking justice or accountability?
2.	Am I feeding the story or cutting the cord?
3.	What boundary or choice will help me reclaim my energy right now?

Key Takeaways
1.	Justice is external. Accountability is internal. You can always choose your response.
2.	Boundaries create accountability. Remove access and stop giving the situation oxygen.
3.	Neutrality equals freedom. When the memory no longer spikes your emotions, you’ve reclaimed your power.
4.	Energy management is Leadership. Rumination drains creativity and clarity.
5.	Clean compassion is strength. Let go with love, not anger.

Mic Drop Moments
•	“Letting go isn’t weakness. It’s one of the most powerful leadership skills you can master.”
•	“You don’t need someone else to make it right in order for you to rise.”
•	“Boundaries aren’t walls; they are declarations of self-respect.”
•	“When you release the need for justice, you make space for peace.”

Connect with Kerry
Visit my website, kerrysiggins.com, to explore my book, The Ownership Mindset, and get more leadership resources. Let’s connect on LinkedIn, Instagram, or TikTok!

Find Reflect Forward on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kerrysiggins-reflectforward 

Find out more about my book here: https://kerrysiggins.com/the-ownership-mindset/ 

Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-siggins/


When Justice Isn’t Possible Leading with Neutrality and Compassion

Reflect Forward isn’t your everyday leadership podcast. This show is about exceptional leadership. Game-changing leadership. Learn from peers, experts, authors, and more on how to be an uber successful leader…one that stands out from the rest. One that inspires others to do great things. One that others want to follow. How does Reflecting Forward fit into exceptional leadership? You can only become great at what you do by deliberately creating your future by reflecting on the past and present…what you did well, mistakes you’ve made, and lessons you’ve learned.

Kerry Siggins is the CEO of StoneAge, the global leader in the manufacturing and distribution of high pressure waterjetting tooling and automated equipment. Kerry is also a member of Young President's Organization (YPO) and sits on several boards. She is a sought-after speaker, thought leader, leadership blogger and podcast host.