Deep within you, there’s a stirring—an ache that whispers you’re meant for something greater. You feel it when you see injustice, when you witness a team floundering, or when someone unfit sits in a role they misuse or misunderstand. That stirring is the call to leadership.

But at the same time, there’s resistance—a shadow that whispers: “Who are you to lead? It’s too much responsibility. What if you fail? What if you lose yourself in the process?” This inner conflict can feel overwhelming and paralyzing.

If this feels familiar, know this: you are not alone. This struggle is archetypal—an ancient story written into the fabric of our souls.

The archetype of the Queen represents sovereignty, integrity, and leadership born from deep care for her people. She doesn’t seek power for its own sake; she leads because her soul calls her to restore harmony, protect her people, and build a thriving community.

But the Queen doesn’t step into her role easily. She faces the shadow archetype of the Snow Queen—a part of her that feels cold, distant, and unable to trust herself or others. This shadow resists the call, retreating into isolation and doubt, whispering that the crown is too heavy to bear.

The Queen also faces external antagonists:

- The Invader, who disrupts and destroys, threatening the well-being of the community.

- The Empty Throne, occupied by leaders who lack the capacity to care for or guide their people, leaving chaos and harm in their wake.

- These forces push the Queen to make a choice: step up and claim her throne, or allow the harm to continue unchecked.

This archetypal struggle is beautifully depicted in stories like Gladiator and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.

In Gladiator, Maximus is a reluctant leader. His only desire is to return home to his family, but when Emperor Commodus seizes power, Maximus is called to fight for Rome. He doesn’t seek the throne out of ambition—it’s his deep love for his people and his hatred of tyranny that drives him forward.

Similarly, in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Harry never wanted to be “The Chosen One.” Yet, when Dolores Umbridge takes the Defence Against the Dark Arts teaching position, spreading fear and suppressing knowledge, Harry steps up. He forms Dumbledore’s Army, teaching his peers to defend themselves because he knows what’s at stake if he doesn’t.

Both Maximus and Harry face their resistance. Both are reluctant to lead. But both ultimately realize that their communities need them—and that their gifts, their courage, and their care are what make them worthy of their roles.

Feeling this conflict—the pull of the throne and the weight of the crown—is a sign of your deep care and integrity. If stepping into leadership feels heavy, it’s because you’re approaching it with a sense of responsibility and love.

True Queens don’t crave power; they serve. They tend to the culture of their teams and communities, ensuring everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered. But they also understand that leadership requires courage.

The shadow of the Snow Queen might try to keep you in doubt, whispering that you’re not ready. But the truth is, no one is ever fully ready. Leadership is a path of growth, and every step forward is an act of trust in yourself and your calling.

If the weight of the world feels heavy on your shoulders, it’s because your soul is guiding you toward the throne that’s already yours. You are not here to fight for power—you are here to create a culture where everyone thrives.

This journey isn’t about becoming someone else; it’s about embracing who you already are.

Take it one step at a time. Begin by tending to the spaces you’re in—your family, your team, your community. Allow yourself to experiment, to stumble, and to learn. The crown will feel lighter as you grow into it.

And remember: the fact that you care this much is what makes you a true leader.

You’re not alone in this struggle. Many Queens before you have faced the same fears, and they have risen. You will rise too.