This counsel from Andrew Carnegie seems appropriately fitting for the new graduate.

“Think of yourself as on the threshold of unparalleled success. A whole, clear, glorious life lies before you. Achieve! Achieve!”

I feel these words, shared by Isabelle Bajeux-Besnainou, the Dean of Carnegie Mellon University’s Tepper School of Business, struck a chord with the fresh graduates. And they struck a chord with those of us who are not so freshly graduated, never graduated, or are further down the road of life. 

For our son Clint, who graduated Saturday with his MBA, the call of action for him and his peers could feel pretty clear–take the skills you have today and improve on them, ask tough questions of yourself and others and seek after the answers, and then put them all together to contribute to the betterment of society. This is the essence of intentional leadership–leading with purpose, vision, and a commitment to live the promise to create impact.

The commencement ceremony wasn’t just a celebration of academic achievement; it was an invitation to find a roadmap for intelligent business and intentional living. As the alumni speaker, Brian Olsavsky, Senior VP and CFO of Amazon, articulated, the foundation of success lies not only in business acumen but also in foundational skills like writing, reading, speaking, and leading.

Intentional leadership goes beyond skills; it’s about attitude and mindset. Olsavsky emphasized the importance of saying “yes” more often, showing up for others, treating everyone with respect, and remaining open to differing perspectives. This is at the heart of intentional leadership–embracing diversity, fostering inclusivity, and leading with empathy and humility.

Olsavsky’s own journey as a CMU graduate eventually took him to Amazon, a fledgling online bookstore 22 years ago, that is now one of the world’s most influential companies. His journey is a testament to the power of intentional leadership, of seizing opportunities, embracing uncertainty, and navigating and leading through change with resilience and adaptability.

As I ponder these insights, I’m reminded of the importance of intentional leadership in my own life. Whether I am leading, mentoring, or coaching others, navigating personal challenges, or charting a new course in life or business, focusing on intentional leadership guides my decisions and actions.

I invite you to consider where you are at the moment, then venture forth into your unknown carrying the spirit of intentional leadership, embracing each challenge as an opportunity to lead with purpose, empathy, and courage. 

And may we, like the MBA graduates of Carnegie Mellon, navigate the path to success with intentionality, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to creating a positive impact in our communities…

And beyond. 

In the tapestry of life, it is not merely our achievements that define us, but the manner in which we lead, inspire, and empower those around us. So let us step boldly into the future, guided by the principles of intentional leadership, and together, we will create a brighter, more compassionate world for generations to come.

Have a great Monday! Thanks for letting me share.

I Love You!

Les Patterson

p.s. Take 13 minutes today to be an Intentional Leader focused on “Achieve! Achieve!”