New Strength News #1

What is New Strength? 

Friend, you're probably wondering if I'm about to sell you a  protein power. But what I'm really passionate about is the kind of inner strength that leaders can use to succeed and thrive.  The kind of strength I'm talking about:

• Completes ambitious projects
• Builds powerful teams
• Establishes lasting legacies.

​New Strength frees leaders from old, repressed stereotypes and allows authentic human expression. New Strength also allows leaders collaborate and delegate, giving them more time to rest, maintain relationships and recharge.

Is your leadership rooted in old stereotypes or rising from the New Strength? 

Take the Quick Leadership Assessment

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How "Old Strength" Leadership Nearly Broke Me

Old, outmoded understanding of strength depended on exerting power over people in a zero-sum game of dominance contests, oppression, and exclusion. This kind of "strength" is all too familiar. You’ve probably worked in teams led by insecure bullies, aloof neglectful supervisors, or saw mysterious decisions being made by members of the old-boys-club. Or perhaps you notice yourself relying on it when you're stressed out or insecure. 


Years ago, I was promoted to a top leadership position for which I was just qualified for. The combination of my drive to do well and my fear of failure caused me to drop everything I knew about collaborative, servant leadership. I became demanding, rigid & aloof. I was a drill sergeant when I should have been a mentor. This top-down approach sabotaged my relationships with my direct-reports and their performance plummeted. Instead of investigating my role in the dysfunction, I doubled down on my power-over, oppressive leadership and while feeling more and more frustrated, lonely, and scared. 
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I came close to ruining the organization and my career.

Fortunately, my board believed enough in my potential to give me some feedback and get me some transformational coaching. With deep introspection and support, I discovered that beneath my fear of failure was powerful passion for the work. That passion gave me the courage to ask my team for help to become a better leader. Over the next few years we thrived and succeeded together.

Here are my key learnings: 

• Top-down, directive power doesn't empower or engage employees. 
• If you feel frustrated and alone, it's likely because you've separated yourself from your team. 
• Don't be afraid to ask for help. Most people will rise to meet you.
• Take time to listen to your heart and soul so you can stay connected to your passion and purpose.

For More New Strength Implementation Read the Complete Blog Post Here

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Want to Engage in a Leadership Community that is Using and Supporting New Strength?
Join Us On Clubhouse

Every Friday at noon EST, I join with other men (and women) who are working on: 

• Integrating Emotional Intelligence into Leadership
• Re-prioritizing wellness and full humanity 
• Practicing Powerful Vulnerability 
• Sharing Successes and Best Practices

Join the Remaking Manhood Club

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New to Clubhouse? Click on the image below for a helpful primer.