The #1 Mindset Shift for Wealth, Growth, and Leadership
“No amount of money will truly free you. But needing less? That will free you right now.”
– Ryan Holiday
I read several amazing chapters in Discipline Is Destiny this week. Though there are so many things I would love to touch on, I’ll keep it brief for the sake of keeping this a quick read. Author Ryan Holiday asserts that steady leadership requires discipline in both how we manage money and how we pursue growth. True freedom comes not from having more, but from needing less and continually striving to improve. I challenge you to read today’s message from the perspective of focusing on discipline in your life through both your actions and your mindset.
Money is a tool, not a goal.
Money itself is neutral—it’s what we do with it that matters. Used well, money provides freedom and leverage. Misused, it becomes a distraction, an addiction, or a source of frustration. Discipline with money isn’t just about saving—it’s about spending wisely and living within your means. Money can represent freedom for some people; but freedom doesn’t come from wealth. Furthermore, wealth doesn’t come from just amassing a lot of money. Wealth comes from reducing your dependency on money. So, the less you need of it to live, the freer you will be to focus on what truly matters – relationships, your purpose, and personal growth. Reduce your dependency on money by needing less.Progress is a reward.
The Japanese word for continuous improvement, kaizen, teaches that true greatness is built on consistent, daily improvement. Never being satisfied, always looking to grow. In my own book, I discuss the pursuit of excellence over perfection. Chasing perfection is a losing game every time. Rather, being excellent in what you do and pursuing progress consistently is the mindset you want to embrace. Focus on getting just a little better every day. This journey of progress – this evolution toward excellence – is your true reward.Timing and restraint are everything.
From my time in combat and my years of experience as a leader of others, I can attest that very rarely does success come from rushing into things. Rather, the discipline to first pause, to think, to prepare, to predict are the stronger indicators of future success. Rushing to be the first to do something is almost never a precursor to success. Strong leaders are not known to be impulsive or reactive; they are thoughtful and responsive. Be very careful to heed the discipline of timing and restraint.Protect your energy and focus.
An integral component of being a steady leader is approaching every day with great energy and consistency. Your people will thrive when they know what to expect from you every single day: a cool, calm, and collected leader. A steady leader is known for the clarity they bring to themselves and others. Manage your energy to ensure you can be that leader for your team at all times.
Being a steady leader isn’t about doing everything; it’s about doing the right things. It’s about knowing where you should restrain yourself. It’s about finding joy in the journey of becoming better every single day, not just pursuing the destination. It’s about being predictable, dependable, and consistent for your team, and focusing on delivering what truly matters. Doing these things consistently will empower you with the influence a leader requires to make lasting improvements for themself, their team, and their company.
Written by Schuyler Williamson
Pre-Order The Steady Leader Book: Pre-Order Book
God Bless!
~ Schuyler Williamson