Walk Into the Future

Category: Mentoring

  • Why Grit Is a Leadership Superpower

    “As much as talent counts, effort counts twice.”

    (Angela Duckworth)

    Success isn’t about talent alone is a statement I love to share with my tree branches.

    When we think about great leaders, we often focus on intelligence, charisma, experience, or natural ability. While those qualities certainly matter, there is another characteristic that often separates exceptional leaders from everyone else: grit.

    Grit is the ability to persevere through challenges, maintain commitment during adversity, and continue moving forward when success seems distant. In leadership, grit is not about being stubborn. It is about having the resilience to pursue meaningful goals despite obstacles, setbacks, and disappointments.

    The leaders who make the greatest impact are often not the most talented individuals in the room—they are the ones who refuse to quit.

    As a runner, I’ve learned that success in long-distance races doesn’t happen because of one great workout. It comes from consistently showing up, especially on the days when motivation is low.  Leadership works the same way.

    Organizations face economic uncertainty, staffing shortages, changing priorities, and unexpected challenges. During these difficult times, team members look to their leaders for stability and direction. Grit allows leaders to remain focused on the mission while adapting to changing circumstances. It helps them stay committed to long-term goals rather than becoming distracted by temporary setbacks.

    People follow leaders they trust.  This is not a huge revelation or insight into building trust. Trust is not built when everything is going well. Trust is built when challenges arise and leaders demonstrate courage, consistency, and determination. When employees see their leader remain calm under pressure, continue serving others during difficult times, and stay committed to organizational values, confidence grows. Team members begin to believe that together they can overcome obstacles.

    A gritty leader communicates a powerful message: “We may face challenges, but we will face them together.”

    Grit creates a culture of resilience.  Leadership behavior becomes organizational behavior. When leaders demonstrate perseverance, employees are more likely to adopt the same mindset. Instead of viewing obstacles as reasons to quit, teams begin viewing them as opportunities to learn and improve.

    Organizations led by gritty leaders often develop cultures characterized by:

    • Persistence / Accountability / Continuous improvement / Adaptability

    These qualities help teams thrive in environments where change is constant. Failure becomes a variable that teaches organizational lessons.  All leaders experience some level of failure during their time running organizations.  Projects fall short of intended goals, some decisions don’t work out, and criticism is inevitable in these situations.

    The difference between successful leaders and unsuccessful leaders is not the absence of failure. It is how they respond to failure. Grit allows leaders to view setbacks as lessons rather than permanent defeats. Instead of asking, “Why did this happen to me?” gritty leaders ask, “What can I learn from this experience?”

    Growth begins when the excuses end.  Leaders who display grit inspire their teams and others who watch their daily interactions.  One of the greatest gifts a leader can offer is hope. When people witness a leader overcoming adversity, they become inspired to push through their own challenges. The leader’s example becomes a source of motivation.

    Think about the leaders who have influenced your life. Chances are they faced obstacles, criticism, and uncertainty. Yet they continued moving forward with determination and purpose.

    Their grit became contagious and direct reports want to emulate this level of determination.

    The future belongs to leaders who are willing to stay the course when others give up.

    Talent may open doors. Experience may create opportunities. But grit is what sustains success over time.

    How do you display grit in your daily interactions?  What improvements can you make in this process?

    Irie!

    Calvin Williams

    “It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.”

    (Confucius)

  • 2026 Celebration of Running 5k!

    “For me, races are the celebration of my training.”

    (Dan Browne)

    The Track Shack running season kicked off as soon as the calendar turned to August.

    This has been the cadence for me for over 15 years now.  I said it before and I will keep saying that I love running with Track Shack and the Orlando running community.  I seriously thought about joining the Track Shack Fanatics program this year, but I can only make half of the six races in the series.  I will stick to picking and choosing Track Shack races that fit within my running schedule and cheer for folks participating in the races I can’t make. 

    The Celebration of Running 5K has become one of my annual measuring sticks. It gives me an opportunity to see where I am early in my training season and determine what I need to do to prepare for the longer races ahead.  Of course, running a 5K in Florida during August comes with its own set of challenges.

    Heat, humidity and more humidity are always on the menu when I venture over to Winter Park for an August race but that’s part of the deal.  I could complain about the weather, the course or how my body feels that morning. And, believe me, runners are pretty good at coming up with excuses. 😊 But running has taught me something important. You don’t always get to choose the conditions. You get to choose how you respond to them.  This lesson extends well beyond running. Leadership is a lot like running

    Leadership and running have more in common than we sometimes realize.  Leadership and running require patience, discipline and the ability to adjust.  There are no guarantees in either of these venues that things will go according to plan.

    My training program is geared towards getting ready for the 2026 Atlantic City Marathon in October.  My goal for the Celebration of Running 5k was to test my fitness and see how much work I still need to put in as I prepare for Atlantic City.  I was prepared mentally and physically but sometimes that’s not enough.  The heat and humidity were major factors in my race results this year.  I started and finished with a smile on my face but found myself struggling with the conditions halfway through the race.  I was able to focus and get myself to the finish line, but I didn’t improve on my 2025 race time.  No huge deal, that’s life sometimes on race day. 😊 There’s always a lesson to learn when I struggle on race day.

    Leadership and running have more in common than we sometimes realize.  Leadership and running require patience, discipline and the ability to adjust.  There are no guarantees in either of these venues that things will go according to plan.

    As a leader, you can prepare for the meeting, develop the strategy, communicate the vision and build the team—but circumstances will inevitably change.  Staff members leave, there are budget cuts, technology doesn’t always work and the organization changes direction.  These things happen all too often.  Things happen in the work environment, and we must be able to adapt to these changes.  How do you respond?

    Running has taught me to embrace that reality. You start with a plan, but you must be willing to adjust along the way.  One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned as I continue to race is that progress isn’t always measured by a faster time.  Sometimes progress is simply showing up. Progress can be completing a workout when I’m not feeling great.  It can also be highlighted by slowing down because my body tells me to.  I realize my performance from one race does not define my ability to perform in my next race.  Running is funny like that.

    These things are true in leadership, too. We can become so focused on the next goal that we fail to recognize the progress we’ve already made. Leaders need to celebrate progress—not just perfection.

    When I look at my running journey since 2010, I see much more than races and finish times. I see growth, discipline, perseverance, patience and resilience.  I continue to learn how to handle setbacks as a runner and a leader. Most importantly, I’ve learned that the journey matters.

    That’s also what I try to bring to my leadership philosophy through Authentic Leadership.

    Leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about being willing to learn. It’s about understanding your people. It’s about creating an environment where people can grow. True leaders must recognize that everyone is on a journey—and helping them become better along the way.

    My leadership philosophy is simple: Impact people in a positive way and leave them better than when you found them.

    That’s my WHY statement that I leverage daily in the work environment.  Running has reinforced that philosophy for me. The people I’ve met through running have encouraged me, challenged me, supported me and, in many cases, become friends.

    Track Shack has been part of that journey for more than 15 years. So, when I show up for another Celebration of Running 5K, I’m not just running a race. I’m continuing a journey while testing myself on the course and the weather. Also, I’m reminding myself that there is always another mile ahead.  This is true in running, leadership and life.

    You don’t have to have the entire journey figured out. You just need to take the next step.

    One step. One mile. One race. One leadership lesson at a time.

    Keep moving forward and Walk into the Future! 😊

    “Running is the answer.  The question is irrelevant.”

    (Unknown)

    Irie!

    Calvin Williams

  • Rucking Is the Fitness Habit Leaders Shouldn’t Ignore

    “Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.”

    (Ralph Waldo Emerson)

    The Walk into the Future blog continues to look for new adventures in this life we lead.  No huge surprise that I love to try new things.  The concept of staying physically fit is a daily part of my life.  One of my new exercise adventures is rucking. 

    Rucking is a very simple fitness program that does not need expensive equipment.  I just put weights into a backpack, put on my shoes and just walk—nothing complicated! 😊

    My first rucking adventure had me walking on the new North Hutchinson island bridge.  I’ve done multiple runs over local bridges but rucking the new bridge got me excited to test my physical conditioning in a new way.  Why rucking?   Great question, Lauren!

    I noticed the rucking trend and decided to see how it could help with my marathon training program.  Rucking is becoming one of the most practical ways to improve physical health, mental resilience, and leadership performance.  It was originally developed as military training; rucking has evolved into a powerful exercise that anyone can incorporate into a daily routine. Whether leading an organization, managing a team, or striving to become your best self, rucking offers benefits that extend far beyond physical fitness.

    Rucking is simply walking while carrying a weighted backpack (known as a rucksack). Unlike running, which places significant impact on the joints, rucking adds resistance while allowing you to maintain a natural walking pace.  There is no need for specialized skills or elite conditioning to ruck.  I simply put a 10-pound weight in an old book bag and started walking.  My first ruck covered 2.5 miles up and over the bridge.  I’ve started to add rucking to my Sunday cardio routine by walking in my neighborhood for 45 minutes.  This is an easy way to get additional cardio in without added pressure on my joints that come from running.

    The physical benefits of rucking are huge.  Rucking combines cardiovascular exercise with strength training, making it one of the most efficient workouts available.  I was surprised to discover that rucking helps with cardiovascular endurance, muscle development in the legs, core and back. Putting weights in your ruck sack (book bag) burns a lot more calories than a regular walk.  I find my posture getting better as I balance the weights in my book bag while keeping an upright walking motion. 

    So, how does rucking impact you as a leader?  Great question, Melissa! 😊

    Leadership requires more than intelligence, it requires resilience. Rucking provides uninterrupted time to think, reflect, and solve problems. I find my best ideas while moving instead of sitting behind a desk. Every mile becomes an opportunity to clear my head and refocus on things that matter most to me.  I’m able to lock in mentally while rucking and create new projects and blog ideas.

    One of the greatest leadership qualities is perseverance. There are moments during every ruck when the weight feels heavier than expected. Hills become steeper. Fatigue sets in. The easiest option is to stop.  But every step teaches an important lesson: we are capable of more than we think.  Keep moving forward!

    Leadership often requires carrying heavy responsibilities that others never see. Rucking becomes a physical reminder that strength is developed by consistently carrying difficult loads—not by avoiding them.  Great leaders don’t ask for lighter loads. They develop stronger shoulders.  The ruck becomes a lesson in endurance, preparation, adaptability, and determination.

    How did I start this new adventure?  I simply put two dumb bells in an old backpack, put on my shoes and started walking.  Sounds like something all my readers could do! 😊 I recommend you focus on consistency instead of speed.  I normally try to ruck for an hour.  The distance is not important to me, but I want to keep moving forward.

    Success in leadership, health, and life rarely comes from dramatic breakthroughs. It comes from small, consistent steps taken day after day. Rucking reminds me that growth happens when we willingly carry challenges instead of avoiding them.  Every mile strengthens the body. Think about grabbing a backpack instead of another leadership book when preparing for your next leadership challenge.  You may discover that the path to becoming a stronger leader begins with simply putting one foot in front of the other.

    Walk into your future—one step, one mile, and one challenge at a time.

    When are starting your rucking program?

    Irie!

    Calvin Williams

  • The Leadership Superpower: Gratitude

    “Some people feel the rain.  Others just get wet.”

    (Bob Marley)

    The Walk into the Future blog continues to lean into the concept of leadership and how it impacts organizational growth and staff professional development.  I will get back to some travel and running articles shortly but please indulge my leadership focus over the past few months—thanks! 😊

    Leaders often focus on strategy, performance metrics, and achieving results. While these elements are important, one of the most powerful leadership tools is often overlooked: gratitude.

    Gratitude is more than saying “thank you.” It is a mindset that recognizes the value of others, appreciates contributions, and acknowledges that success is rarely achieved alone. Leaders who intentionally practice gratitude create stronger relationships, healthier workplace cultures, and more engaged teams.

    Gratitude may be one of the most important leadership skills we can cultivate as we Walk into the Future.  How does this work?  Outstanding question, Jayla? 😊

    Leadership is fundamentally about people. No huge revelation, huh? Staff members want to feel seen, valued, and appreciated for their efforts. When leaders consistently express gratitude, they strengthen trust and deepen relationships with their team members.

    Simple acts of appreciation can have a profound impact:

    • Recognizing someone’s hard work during a meeting.
    • Sending a handwritten note of thanks.
    • Celebrating milestones and accomplishments.
    • Acknowledging contributions that often go unnoticed.

    Staff members are more likely to remain committed to leaders who genuinely appreciate them.

    Workplace culture is created by what leaders consistently model and reinforce. A grateful leader sets a positive tone that often spreads throughout the organization.  When gratitude in the workplace is present then team members are more likely to support each other, collaboration increases and workplace conflict decreases.   Team members begin focusing less on what’s missing and more on what’s possible. This shift creates an environment where people are motivated to contribute their best work.

    One of the most common reasons employees become disengaged is feeling unappreciated. People want to know that their efforts matter.  A grateful leader understands recognition fuels staff motivation.  When staff members receive sincere appreciation, they are more likely to take ownership of their work, remain committed during challenging times and contribute innovative ideas.  Workplace engagement grows when your team believes their contributions make a difference.

    Leadership comes with challenges, setbacks, and uncertainty. During difficult seasons, gratitude helps leaders maintain perspective.  Rather than focusing solely on obstacles, grateful leaders recognize:

    • Lessons learned from failures.
    • Opportunities hidden within challenges.
    • The support of colleagues and team members.
    • Wins (fun fact: this is my 2026 word for my current work environment) 😊

    Gratitude does not ignore difficulties—it helps leaders navigate them with optimism and resilience.

    Authentic leaders understand that leadership is not about personal recognition; it is about serving and developing others. Gratitude naturally aligns with authentic leadership because it requires humility and self-awareness. When leaders express genuine appreciation, they demonstrate respect for the team, emotional intelligence, humility and commitment to people building. Authentic leaders recognize that every success story includes the efforts of many individuals working together toward a common goal. Small actions, consistently practiced, can create significant cultural change.

    Years from now, people may not remember every decision you made or every goal you achieved. They will, however, remember how you treated them and whether they felt valued under your leadership. Gratitude leaves a lasting impression because it meets a fundamental human need: the desire to be appreciated.

    As leaders, we can create environments where people feel recognized, respected, and inspired. Gratitude is not a weakness; it is a leadership strength that elevates individuals, teams, and organizations.  Remember that one sincere expression of gratitude can change someone’s day, strengthen a relationship, and inspire excellence.  This is an outstanding way to continue your Walk into the Future. 😊

    Gratitude is the bridge between leadership and influence. When people feel appreciated, they become empowered to achieve more than they ever thought possible.

    Which of your current team members deserves your gratitude today, and what impact could a simple expression of appreciation have on their future success?

    Irie!

    Calvin Williams

    “Gratitude is the opener of locked-up blessings.”

    (Marianne Williamson)

  • Leadership Lessons Hidden in a Tomato Flower 🌱

    When people think about growing tomatoes, they usually focus on the result—the ripe, red fruit ready to harvest.

    But long before the tomato appears, there is a small flower.

    That flower holds the potential for something greater.

    Leadership works the same way.

    Great leaders understand that results do not happen overnight. They begin with planting seeds:

    🌱 A clear vision
    🌱 A commitment to values
    🌱 Trusting relationships
    🌱 Opportunities for growth

    The tomato flower reminds us that potential must be nurtured before it can produce results.

    Every person in an organization represents a flower of possibility. Inside each team member is talent, creativity, and leadership potential waiting for the right environment to grow.

    Authentic leaders create that environment by providing:

    ✅ Encouragement instead of fear
    ✅ Accountability with support
    ✅ Coaching instead of criticism
    ✅ Opportunities instead of limitations

    A gardener cannot force a tomato plant to grow faster by pulling on the stem. Growth requires patience, consistency, and the right conditions.

    Leadership development is no different.

    People need time to learn, make mistakes, gain confidence, and discover their ability to lead.

    Sometimes flowers fall before fruit appears. In leadership, setbacks happen too. A missed opportunity, a failed project, or a struggling employee does not mean growth is impossible. Great leaders examine the environment, adjust, and continue investing in people.

    The true measure of leadership is not just what you accomplish.

    It is what grows because of your influence.

    So, ask yourself:

    What seeds am I planting? What environment am I creating? Who is growing because I chose to lead?

    Authentic leadership is like nurturing a growing plant—when you invest in people with purpose, patience, and integrity, everyone can flourish.

    Let’s talk Authentic Leadership and how it can help your organization grow—pun intended! 😊

    Fun fact—I started growing tomatoes as a new hobby last week and my tomato plants inspired this article.

    Irie!

    Calvin Williams

    #AuthenticLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #EmployeeGrowth #OrganizationalCulture #WalkIntoTheFuture

    ***This article was originally published on my LinkedIn profile***

  • The Impact of Authentic Leadership on Mentoring

    “A mentor is someone who allows you to see hope in yourself.”

    (Oprah Winfrey)

    Leadership is often measured by results, performance metrics, and organizational success. However, one of the most enduring legacies of a leader is not found in strategic plans or annual reports—it is found in the people they develop. Authentic leadership plays a critical role in mentoring because it creates an environment built on trust, transparency, and genuine human connection.

    Authentic leadership is the practice of leading with integrity, self-awareness, and consistency between values and actions. Authentic leaders embrace who they are, acknowledge their strengths and weaknesses, and create meaningful relationships with those they serve.  When applied to mentoring, authenticity becomes the foundation upon which growth and development are built.

    The most effective mentoring relationships are grounded in trust. Mentees are more likely to seek guidance, share concerns, and accept feedback when they believe their mentor is genuine and sincere.  When trust exists, mentoring moves beyond transactional conversations and becomes transformational development.

    Authentic leaders foster environments where their mentees feel safe to learn, ask questions, and make mistakes. Instead of judging every misstep, they view challenges as opportunities for growth. Psychological safety encourages mentees to take calculated risks, share ideas, seek feedback without fear and learn from failures.  I make it a point to let all my direct report know I don’t care if they make mistakes.  Just don’t make the same mistake multiple times.

    As a result, mentees become more confident, resilient, and willing to stretch beyond their comfort zones.

    One of the most powerful aspects of Authentic leadership is the willingness to continue learning. Authentic leaders recognize that leadership is a journey, not a destination.  Mentees who observe authentic leaders adopt similar habits: seeking continuous improvement, embracing feedback and pursuing professional development opportunities.

    Leadership is often “caught” more than it is taught, and authentic leaders model the behaviors they want to see in others.  Mentoring is not about creating followers; it is about developing future leaders. Authentic leaders understand that their success is measured by the success of those they mentor.

    Rather than focusing on control, they focus on empowerment.  Authentic leaders encourage mentees to think independently, make decisions, and develop their own leadership style.  This approach creates a ripple effect throughout organizations and communities as mentees become mentors themselves.

    Many people may forget a leader’s title, position, or accomplishments, but they rarely forget how a leader made them feel. Authentic leaders leave a lasting impact because they invest in people, not just performance.  Their influence extends beyond the workplace into families, communities, and future generations of leaders.

    As we walk into the future, organizations will continue to face new challenges and rapid change. The leaders who will make the greatest difference are those who choose authenticity over appearance and mentorship over authority.

    The future belongs to leaders who develop people, inspire trust, and create opportunities for others to succeed. Authentic leadership is not simply a leadership style—it is a legacy-building commitment to helping others become the best versions of themselves.

    Who’s ready to build your own legacy?

    Who was the most authentic mentor in your life, and what leadership lesson from them continues to shape your journey today?

    I welcome your thoughts!

    Irie!

    Calvin Williams

    “Find a mentor who will cast a shadow for you to follow.”

    (Unknown)

  • Repost: Great Leaders

    Emulate great leaders ‘and’ learn from bad bosses

  • Marathon Training and Leadership: The Journey Matters

    “Don’t dream of winning, train for it.”

    (Mo Farah)

    My Walk into the Future continues at the halfway point of 2026. This year has been exciting for me as I explore new adventures and topics for my readers.  Please note, these adventures and topics are exciting to me and I’m happy to share with you—hopefully you are enjoying the journey so far in 2026. 

    Shoutout to Lauren for accepting a new role within the Villanova University Career Center—well done my friend! 😊

    I started reflecting on how to compare training for a marathon and leadership. There are a few things that both have in common.  At first glance, marathon training and leadership may seem worlds apart. One involves logging miles on roads and trails, while the other focuses on guiding people and organizations toward success. However, the more time I spend pursuing both, the more I realize they share many of the same principles.

    Success in both begins with a vision.  No huge revelation there, huh?  Nobody wakes up one morning and accidentally completes a marathon. The journey begins with a clear goal and a commitment to achieving it. Leadership works the same way. Effective leaders establish a vision, communicate it clearly, and create a plan to move forward.

    Whether training for 26.2 miles or leading a team through a challenging project, success starts by knowing where you want to go.  Many new runners believe success comes from one great workout. Experienced marathoners know that consistent training over time produces results. Success as a leader follows the same pattern.

    The most respected leaders are not the people who deliver occasional moments of brilliance. They consistently show up, communicate effectively, support their teams, and make sound decisions day after day.  These small daily actions consistently create outstanding outcomes for the team.  How do you build an ant hill—one grain of sand at a time! 😊

    Every marathon training plan includes periods where progress feels slow. There are days when the miles feel difficult, motivation is low, and improvement seems invisible. Leadership presents similar daily challenges. Organizational change takes time. Team development takes time. Building trust takes time.  Great leaders understand that meaningful progress rarely happens overnight. They remain committed to the process even when immediate results are not apparent.

    Every marathon includes difficult runs and occasional bad weather. Every leader faces obstacles as they attempt to move the team and organization forward. In training, challenging workouts strengthen the body and mind. In leadership, difficult conversations, unexpected setbacks, and periods of uncertainty develop resilience and character. The challenges we face often become the experiences that prepare us for future success.

    Although marathon runners cross the finish line individually, their success is often supported by coaches, training partners, family members, and friends.  Thanks Jayla, Lauren and Lynn! 😊

    Leadership is no different. Strong leaders recognize that success is a collective effort. They invest in relationships, empower others, and understand that accomplishments are rarely achieved in isolation.  The strongest leaders know how to build strong teams.

    Marathon training includes many small victories before race day: completing a long run, reaching a new distance, or achieving a personal best.  Leadership journeys should include celebrations as well. Recognizing progress boosts morale, reinforces positive behaviors, and reminds teams that their efforts matter.  Success is not just about reaching the finish line—it is about appreciating the journey.

    Marathon training has taught me lessons that extend far beyond running. It has reinforced the value of discipline, resilience, patience, and purpose—qualities that define effective leadership. Both journeys require commitment and demand perseverance. And both remind us that the most rewarding accomplishments are earned one step at a time.  This seems to be a recurring theme. 😊

    As you continue your own leadership journey, remember that progress is made through consistent forward movement. Just like a marathon, leadership is not a sprint. It is a long-term commitment to growth, improvement, and helping others reach their potential.

    Keep moving forward. Your future is waiting.

    Irie!

    Calvin Williams

    “Everything you wanted to know about yourself, you can learn in 26.2 miles.”

    (Dr. George Sheehan)

  • Iron Sharpens Iron: The Power of Mutual Growth

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    “No man will make a great leader who want to do it all himself, or to get all the credit for doing it.”

    (Andrew Carnegie)

    The Walk into the Future blog pivoted to more leadership content in the past few weeks.  This is not surprising as I look to expand my leadership consulting program and reach potential clients with my content.

    Proverbs 27:17 highlight one of my favorite leadership principles: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

    Iron becomes sharper only through friction. In the same way, leaders grow through relationships and situations that challenge their thinking, stretch their abilities, and refine their character.

    The normal trend is for leaders to surround themselves with people who simply agree with every decision. While agreement may feel comfortable, it rarely produces growth. The best leaders intentionally seek colleagues, mentors, and team members who ask difficult questions, offer honest feedback, and encourage continuous improvement. 

    General Colin Powell has a specific leadership rule that I leverage daily with my team.  General Powell states, “If you agree with everything I say then one of us is redundant.”  I love that quote! 😊

    Healthy leadership isn’t about avoiding friction—it’s about embracing constructive conversations that make everyone stronger. Great teams operate with this mindset. They celebrate successes, challenge for improvements and hold everyone accountable with respect and trust. Their goal isn’t to win arguments; it’s to help shape everyone into better leaders.

    Authentic leaders should ask the following questions:

    • Who sharpens me?
    • Who am I sharpening?
    • Am I creating an environment where honest feedback is welcomed rather than feared?

    Leadership is not about standing above others. It is about growing alongside the team members. When leaders intentionally sharpen one another, organizations become stronger, cultures become healthier, and people reach their full potential.

    As you walk into the future, don’t seek people who simply tell you what you want to hear. Seek those who challenge you to become the leader you were created to be.

    My final thoughts highlight leadership is about developing people, not just directing them.  The strongest leaders are the ones who continually sharpen themselves while helping sharpen others in their workspace.

    Who did YOU sharpen today?

    Irie!

    Calvin Williams

    “Real leadership is leaders recognizing that they serve the people that they lead.”

    (Pete Hoekstra)

  • Leadership Lessons from Twelve O’clock High

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    “The key to successful leadership today is influence, not authority.”

    (Ken Blanchard)

    The Walk into the Future blog is leaning into leadership more this year. This is not a major revelation, but I wanted to ensure that my readers are ready for additional doses of leadership wisdom.  The blog content is developed through life experiences and thoughts that I want to share.  I kept playing a leadership lesson I learned from the movie Twelve O’clock High on repeat during one of my 8-mile runs recently.

    I was introduced to this movie during a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) Leadership Academy I attended while stationed at Kadena Air Base, Japan (Okinawa).  The academy was designed to prepare future leaders in the best way to ensure career and professional development.  This academy is a steppingstone for airmen who have been identified as the future of leadership.  I never saw Twelve O’clock High prior to this training, but I have watched it multiple times over the years and continue to learn new lessons from the movie. 

    The message I got from Twelve O’clock High is that effective leadership requires strength and compassion, especially when the leader is under pressure.  The movie follows Brigadier General (BG) Frank Savage, played by Gregory Peck as he takes command of a demoralized bomber group during World War II. At first, his leadership style appears harsh and demanding, but the movie gradually reveals several themes to his leadership style.

    Leadership can be viewed as lonely because leaders must make difficult decisions that may not be popular with the team.  BG Savage is forced to prioritize the overall mission and the welfare of the organization over personal friendships and comfort.

    A high performing organization requires accountability.  The movie highlights that excellence is achieved through discipline, clear standards, and holding people accountable, even when doing so is uncomfortable. 

    The movie highlights the concept that people can rise above what they think they can do.  Many of the airmen believed they had reached their limits, but BG Savage brought them strong leadership and renewed confidence.  They discovered greater resilience than they thought possible. 

    One of the movie’s most powerful messages is that leaders carry emotional burdens. BG Savage appears tough, but the strain of responsibility eventually affects him as well. The film shows that courage is not the absence of stress or fear.

    The movie demonstrates that great leaders must care about results and people simultaneously. Being overly soft can hurt performance, but being overly rigid can damage morale.

    The movie continues to attract viewers even though it is set during World War II.  The movie is frequently used in leadership training because the lessons apply to business, education, government, and nonprofit organizations. It explores how leaders transform struggling teams, build trust, and sustain performance during periods of intense change and uncertainty.

    This classic movie shows great leadership means inspiring ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things while carrying the weight of responsibility with integrity and courage.

    Twelve O’clock High remains one of my favorite movies for the content and leadership lessons from BG Savage.  I highly recommend it for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills.

    What’s another movie that depicts what great leadership looks like?

    Irie!

    Calvin Williams

    “Leadership is vision, influence, and execution.”

    (Brad Lomenick)

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