What is Shadow behaviour and why is it so damaging?
Shadow Behaviour is a blocker to being in Best Self
It’s the stuff that pulls you off course – automatic, often unconscious reactions like defensiveness, impatience, or control. It’s not weakness.
It’s human. And it’s predictable.
Rooted in your PRINT®, your Shadow shows up when you’re triggered – but it doesn’t have to take over. When you spot it, you can stop it.
And that unlocks choice: to respond, not react. To lead with clarity, not impulse. Because when you understand your Shadow, you clear the way for your best self to shine.
Shadow Behaviour doesn’t just hold people back…
It ripples out – silently, powerfully – through teams and cultures.
It strains relationships.
Kills clarity.
Breaks down trust.
Slows teams.
Saps morale.
Drives people out.
And clouds the decisions that matter most.
Independent research shows: the impact is real, and the cost is high. Which is why spotting the Shadow isn’t optional. It’s essential.
