Find Your Route – Obstacles Are Not Always the Way
In leadership, there are moments when pushing through an obstacle isn’t the only solution. Take the BUDS obstacle course, for example. During one run, I found myself stuck behind a fellow student struggling. The clock was ticking, and frustration was rising.
Don’t Stop Now: How to Push Through Life’s Illusions of Success
In SEAL training, we faced a brutal 12-mile soft sand run after Hell Week. When the finish line seemed in sight, exhaustion hit hard, and many believed they were done. As the instructor pushed the pace, we sprinted the last 100 yards—only to realize the finish line was a false peak. The instructor kept running, and some fell to the ground, unable to push forward.
The Leadership Lesson from Mogadishu
In the chaos of the 1993 Mogadishu conflict, an unexpected event changed the course of the battle. While Pakistani quick reaction forces hesitated to head out of their protective compound to support US Army Rangers in a life-and-death firefight, fearing the dangers of the mission, four special operators led by Navy SEAL Captain Olsen made a daring decision to walk directly into the fight. Their bold and risky move shocked the Pakistani commanders, who, in turn, were compelled to act. The SEALs’ courage eliminated doubt by demonstrating the power of decisive action.
The Power of Silence in Leadership
During my career, I once worked with a leader who struggled with one major weakness: the inability to embrace the beauty of silence. Despite his good intentions, he constantly discussed plans and challenges, talked over people, and jumped in when there was a pause, never allowing others to contribute.
Letting Go to Lead
One of the most powerful things we can do as a leader is to release what no longer serves us. This process of letting go is about discarding the old to make space for growth and new possibilities.
Success Is a Team Sport
As we embark on 2025, many of us are setting ambitious goals. However, it’s crucial to recognize that success is rarely achieved in isolation. The most significant accomplishments often result from the support and collaboration of others. Whether it’s a mentor, a friend, or an accountability partner, the power of shared effort becomes essential, especially when facing challenges.
Focus Precedes Success
During the holiday season, constant demands and distractions make it common to feel overwhelmed. Your ability to maintain focus not only impacts your own performance but also sets the tone for your entire team—the key to managing stress during times like these lies in slowing down to regain clarity.
Victory Pause
As we push ourselves to achieve more, the emotional landscape accompanying reaching a goal can be a mix of exhilaration and emptiness. The high of accomplishing something significant can be intense—like standing atop a mountain. But just as quickly, that rush can fade, leaving a quiet sense of “what’s next.” This emotional swing is often overlooked but crucial for long-term growth.
Harnessing Emotional Intelligence for Leadership Excellence
Emotional intelligence stands as a cornerstone of success for transformative leaders. As an expert in emotionally intelligent leadership, I can attest that mastering emotions is hugely beneficial and crucial for clarity in decision-making and effective team management.
How to Manufacture a Breakthrough: Building Leadership and Mental Resilience
Breakthroughs don’t just happen—they result from deliberate inner work and preparation. To become a true leader, you must build the mental resilience and leadership skills to turn great ideas into reality.
Start by developing mental resilience. This involves honing your ability to stay focused, calm, and disciplined, even under pressure. Daily meditation or structured reflection can sharpen your focus and fortify your mind.
