The Leadership Pivot: 5 Lessons to Strengthen Your Impact

Hi there. It’s just you and me here for a moment, and I want to talk directly to you—not as a group, not as a team, but leader to leader. We both know that the path of leadership can feel like a balancing act: growth, legacy, authenticity, and, yes, navigating challenges. It’s not easy. But let me share some lessons I’ve learned along the way that might just resonate with you.

These are insights I’ve carried from my time in public accounting, business, sports, and coaching leaders like yourself. Let’s take this journey together and talk about five things that might help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

1. Your Transformations Are Your Greatest Strength

Let me tell you something about transformation—it’s never comfortable but always powerful. My journey from being a collegiate athlete to leading a top office at BDO and now coaching leaders has shown me one thing: embracing change is where growth happens.

Think about your own transformations. They’ve shaped you, right? Maybe you had to pivot strategies, adjust to new expectations, or rethink your approach entirely. Those moments are your foundation. Don’t shy away from them; lean into them. They’re the proof of your resilience.

2. Clarity Can Be Your Superpower

We all have those days when it feels like the noise never stops—the meetings, decisions, and endless emails. I’ve been there. What changed for me was discovering how to quiet that noise through mindfulness. Tai Chi, for instance, taught me to slow down and focus on what truly matters.

Let me ask you: What would it look like if you carved out time to find clarity every day? Imagine how much more impactful you could be with a clear mind and sharp focus. Whether it’s a mindful pause or journaling, give yourself that gift. Your team will feel the difference.

3. Engagement Starts with You

You know this already, but let me remind you: if you want an engaged team, you’ve got to engage with them first. People need to feel valued, seen, and heard. When I think back to my career, the moments that stand out are when someone gave me the space to contribute—to feel like I mattered.

What’s one thing you could do this week to connect more deeply with your team? Whether it’s a check-in or offering them a new challenge, take that step. Engagement is a two-way street, and it starts with you.

4. Don’t Avoid Conflict—Lean Into It

Let’s be honest: no one loves conflict. But avoiding it? That’s where things start to unravel. I’ve seen how addressing tough conversations head-on can transform a team. I once worked with a group where trust had eroded over the years. Facing those issues wasn’t easy, but the results? A team that felt like a new firm.

If there’s an issue lingering in your world, tackle it. I know it’s uncomfortable, but trust me, the hardest part is the anticipation. Once it’s out on the table, you’ll find a path forward—and with it, a stronger team.

5. Leadership Is About Relationships

This one’s simple, but it’s everything. Leadership isn’t about titles or numbers; it’s about relationships. It’s how you connect with your team, your clients, and your community. At the end of the day, people will remember how you made them feel.

So, let me ask: What’s one relationship you could nurture today? It doesn’t have to be grand—just a meaningful conversation, a note of appreciation, or even asking, “How can I support you?” Those little moments build trust, and trust is the foundation of great leadership.

Some Final Thoughts

You’ve got what it takes to make an incredible impact, not just in your organization but in the lives of those around you. It starts with one step, one decision to show up fully and authentically.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that every small action you take today builds the legacy you’ll leave tomorrow.

I’m rooting for you.

Until next time!