Our family car has a big, ugly dent along the driver’s door. But here’s the thing — it still works perfectly.
It got me thinking about how often we pour energy into fixing what’s visible, not what’s actually broken — in life and in leadership.
This post explores why we need to focus less on optics and more on what really drives progress.

I usually run to clear my head, no headphones, no distractions — just me and my thoughts. But this weekend, a request from my 9-year-old daughter changed my plans… and gave me a lesson I didn’t know I needed.

Last week, I had the privilege of being part of a volunteer team that delivered a hugely successful community event. Over the course of the day, we hosted around 4,000 people — families, friends, neighbours, colleagues and strangers — all coming together in celebration, connection and joy.

Seeking feedback provides a fast-track for improvement and progress 

When you listen well, you hear what's said and what's not

A pause can sometimes say a lot more than words

Hunt out the goodness - a leadership challenge. Not just wait for it to appear, but actively look for it, create it, and amplify it.

Think about it: Have you ever picked up a habit, a mindset, or even a catchphrase from someone who didn’t even know they were influencing you? Maybe it was a leader at work, a teacher, a coach, or even a stranger whose words stuck with you. As parents, how many times do we hear our parents' words coming out of our mouths?

In sharing my journey with others, I’ve noticed that many think “leadership coaching” is only for traditional leaders or those in formal roles of authority. But leadership isn’t a title—it’s a mindset, a confidence to bring your true self forward, and to act with purpose, vision, and courage.

Two months ago, to the day, I stood facing a fork in the metaphorical road. One path was familiar: I’d walked versions of it for over 20 years, achieving reasonable success, growing a suite of skills, and, most importantly, building and nurturing lasting relationships. The other path was less familiar