Bianca D’Alessio’s “Mastering Intentions”

Bianca D’Alessio’s “Mastering Intentions: 10 Practices to Amplify Power and Lead with Lasting Impact” is the sort of leadership book that doesn’t bother with recycled platitudes or hollow motivational quotes. Instead, D’Alessio digs into the everyday grind of leading teams, making tough calls, and staying true to your core values—even when it would be easier to just go with the flow. The book reads less like a lecture and more like a conversation with a mentor who’s seen it all and still believes in the power of clear, purposeful action.

D’Alessio’s central thesis is deceptively simple: intention is the engine of real leadership. She argues that it’s not about power for power’s sake, but about aligning your actions with a deeper sense of purpose—something that’s easy to say, but much harder to pull off in the real world. Each chapter unpacks a specific practice, from clarifying your “why” to building trust and cultivating resilience. The advice is practical and rooted in D’Alessio’s own experience as a leader and coach, full of stories that feel lived-in rather than cherry-picked for effect.

Fans may already know D’Alessio from her role on the reality TV show “Selling the Hamptons,” where her leadership skills and sharp instincts are on full display as she navigates the high-stakes world of luxury real estate. Her presence on the show offers a real-life glimpse into the principles she lays out in the book, showing how intentional leadership can drive results even in the most competitive environments.

What sets this book apart is its refusal to separate the personal from the professional. D’Alessio makes a compelling case that the same intentionality you bring to work can—and should—spill over into every part of your life. She’s refreshingly candid about the mistakes and setbacks that come with growth, and she never pretends that there’s a quick fix for the messiness of being human. The exercises at the end of each chapter are more than thought experiments; they’re calls to action, designed to get you out of your head and into the work of leading with integrity.

If you’re looking for a book that will hand you a checklist and promise success, this isn’t it. But if you want something that challenges you to rethink how you show up—for your team, your organization, and yourself—“Mastering Intentions” is a smart, no-nonsense guide. D’Alessio’s approach is both grounded and inspiring, and her message lingers long after the last page: real power comes from knowing what matters, and having the guts to live it every day.

Nicole Killian