It’s hard to make an impact.
It’s hard to climb the mountain.
It’s hard to get the top job.
It’s hard to lead people.
It’s hard to cast vision.
But hard is what you signed up for if your job is to do any of those things.
When you decided to take up a calling and a mantle to lead people, to shift the status quo, to really make a change, you signed yourself up for some of the hardest shit humans are required to do. And you’d hate it if it were easy – you’d be bored, lackluster, and spinning your wheels – but sometimes it can really wear on you that it’s hard.
I get that.
Anyone doing purposeful work gets that.
We’re shaping the people around us.
We’re shaping the way things work.
We’re shaping the future we all live in.
It’s not easy.
But no one ever promised you that.
So, what can we do when it inevitably gets and stays tough?
- Calibrate Correctly – Don’t compare your workload or responsibility to anyone beneath you in the company, to anyone who is clocking out at 5 pm. They aren’t you and you aren’t them. Calibrate to your level and what you’re trying to achieve and do. Not anyone else.
- Applaud Yourself – If you’re looking for a round of high-fives for getting four hours of sleep last night, you won’t get it. You have to lean towards being a full circle, self-validating machine that isn’t waiting for approval or congrats or a thumbs up for how you’re going above and beyond.
- Know Your WHY – Circle back to your why every morning. Remind yourself why you’re here, what you’re working for, and what kind of future you’re creating. If you lose track of your inner compass and get lost out there in comparison land, you’ll lose your momentum and energy. Harness that fucking energy and stay the course.
Your job is to go out ahead of people and lead the way, and the first person paving a path through the wilderness and weeds is going to sweat.
You’re that person, so keep your eyes on the prize.
And keep going.