Who's sitting at your table?

Crystal Leonardi
Aug 19
2 min read

We all have a table. Not a physical one necessarily, but a metaphorical table — a sacred space where we gather the people who shape our lives, influence our energy, and contribute to our journey. The seats at this table are precious, limited, and powerful.

So the question is:

Who's sitting at your table?

Recently, I had the privilege of attending the AusMumpreneur Conference and Awards in Melbourne. It was an inspiring few days surrounded by an incredible community of women - leaders, dreamers, doers — from every corner of Australia. Women from all walks of life, all industries, and all stories came together not in competition but in celebration of one another.

The energy in the room was electric. It was supportive, genuine, uplifting - the kind that fills your cup and reminds you why community matters. I returned home feeling like I could do anything, and more importantly, that I had a tribe who believed that too. It's a rare and beautiful thing to be surrounded by people who cheer for you loudly, even when it’s not their turn to shine.

That experience got me thinking: Who do we allow to sit at our table?

Because the truth is, not everyone deserves a seat. Some people bring light, joy, and encouragement. They inspire us to be more, to stretch beyond our limits, and to chase our goals with courage. These are the ones who remind us of our worth, even on the hard days. These are the people who should have a permanent place at your table.

But then there are others. The energy-drainers. The ones who doubt, diminish, or distract. The ones who only show up when it serves them, or who quietly erode your confidence with passive remarks and conditional support. Maybe they were once essential to your life and helped you grow in the past, but now, their seat is costing you too much.

It's not about blame or bitterness. It's about alignment and growth.

Sometimes, we outgrow people. Sometimes, we evolve, and the company we keep needs to evolve too.

So today, I want to ask you:

✨ Who has a seat at your table?

✨ Who fills your cup, lifts you up, and celebrates your wins?

✨ And just as importantly — who are you keeping a spot for out of habit, guilt, or fear?

Your table should be a space of strength, not stress. A space of inspiration, not insecurity. And you get to choose - with love, with intention - who gets to stay, and who it’s time to kindly show the door.

As I reflect on Melbourne and the powerhouse women I met, I’m reminded that our lives are shaped by the people we invite in. Choose wisely. Surround yourself with those who light you up, not dim your shine.