Slow is Smooth…
Smooth is Fast…

This lesson was deeply ingrained in me over my 24 years as an Army soldier.

While the concept felt like a paradox earlier on (how can you go fast by slowing down?), over the years, I came to understand that the principle of slowing down is a cornerstone of effective leadership that can create meaningful progress.

A couple of weeks ago, I took that lesson to heart. I withdrew from the everyday hustle and nestled myself in the quiet, expansive solitude of Utah’s West Desert. It was four days of intentional reflection and strategic focus–time spent slowing down to rediscover what truly matters.

As I sat in focused slowness over those four days, I honed in on three core principles that guide my life and my work:

❤️ Clarify My Vision
❤️ Focus My Strategy
❤️ Live My Promise

These simple phrases aren’t just words; they are the foundation of Intentional Leadership.

When we take the time to clarify what we truly want to achieve, focus on the strategies that will get us there, and live out the promises we make to ourselves and others, we move through life with purpose and direction. And in doing so, we will find the pace of progress quickens in ways we may have never anticipated.

This retreat wasn’t just about solitude, though. It was also about growth, learning, and being challenged by some of the best in the world. I had the privilege of joining a speakers retreat led by Cheryl Knowlton, my greatest professional cheerleader. Cheryl is one of less than 800 “Certified Speaking Professionals” worldwide, and she’s been instrumental in helping me refine my “Intentional Leadership” message.

Joining us were two Hall of Fame speakers, Chad Hymas and Jason Hewlett. These men have reached the pinnacle of their profession, yet they continue to push themselves to be better, to refine their craft, and to serve others more effectively. Being in their presence was a humbling reminder that true leadership is a journey of constant growth.

One of the most powerful takeaways from this retreat was the importance of using our words to create stronger connections. As leaders, every word we speak, write, and share serves to either build or erode our relationships with those who matter most, those we lead, and those we serve (ie. family, team, customers).

With this guidance, Cheryl, Chad, and Jason challenged me to refine how I share my words to make each word and every moment count, and to ensure that my message connects deeply with those I serve.

This experience comes at a significant time for me.

September 1st marked the eight-year anniversary of launching Red Edge Mentoring. Looking back, there were many times I doubted we would make it even a year. But with the support of my wife, Elisa–my hero, cheerleader, and confidant–we have survived and thrived. More importantly, we are creating good, impacting lives, and creating a legacy.

In creating this legacy, as Chad and Jason reminded us, the work to improve never stops. Even at the height of their careers, they continue to tweak, refine, and innovate. It’s a powerful lesson for any leader: no matter how far we’ve come, there’s always more to learn, more ways to grow, and more people to serve.

As I reflect on this journey–both the retreat and the past eight years–the lesson of “Slow is Smooth… Smooth is Fast” rings more true than ever. By intentionally slowing down we set ourselves up for a smoother, faster path forward. We may not always notice the speed at which we’re moving, but when we look back, we see the distance we’ve covered.

Intentionally slowing down can also help you discover how to better move forward through greater clarity, focus, and impact as you create your legacy.

Slow is Smooth…
Smooth is Fast…

INTENTIONAL LEADERSHIP 13 MINUTE CHALLENGE

Take 13 minutes today to intentionally slow down by clarifying an element of your Vison and/or focusing a step of your Strategy.

❤️❤️❤️

I love you, friend!

Have a great Monday! Thanks for letting me share.

Les

p.s. Did you notice the 13 minute p.s. section has a new home right above???

RED EDGE MENTORING – VISION | STRATEGY | PROMISE

EMPOWERING LEADERS TO CREATE AND LIVE A MORE INTENTIONAL LIFE

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