Make it an amazing week, friend!

February 20, 2024

Why should leaders “eat last”? 🥗 

What does this phrase even mean?

It is about fundamentally putting the needs and well being of your team ahead of your own.

The phrase is based on the observation that in the military, senior officers often let the junior soldiers eat first, and only take their meals after everyone else has been served.

It creates a circle of safety. When leaders make their people feel safe and valued, they foster a culture of cooperation, collaboration, and innovation. People are more willing to take risks, share ideas, and solve problems when they know that their leaders have their backs and will not punish them for mistakes or failures.

A circle of safety protects the group from external threats, such as competitors, market changes, or crises, by increasing the group’s resilience and adaptability.

It also inspires loyalty and performance in your team. When leaders eat last, they demonstrate that they are not driven by selfish motives, such as power or money, but by a higher purpose, such as serving a cause, a vision, or a mission.

As a bonus, it multiplies leaders. When leaders eat last, they empower their people to grow, learn, and develop their own leadership potential. They do not micromanage, dictate, or control, but rather coach, mentor, and support. They delegate authority and responsibility, and encourage followers to take initiative and make decisions.

This isn’t something I only do in leadership. It is typically something you will see me do at home or at team meetings and events when it comes to meals. I’ve always done this, even as a kid. I guess I just never wanted someone else to go without.

I’ve seen it happen. Food runs out and leaves 1 or 2 people with nothing. They play it off like it’s no big deal. At the same time, I’ve observed leaders sitting down eating and not even recognizing the food is gone because they’re busy eating.

Take inventory of how you show up. Are you first in line, ready to fill the plate or are you an end of the liner?

Your actions are creating a narrative whether you realize it or not. What are yours saying about you?

Something worth watching:

I am not sure if you’ve picked up on it yet, but I love amplifying other people!

My friend, Dave Won, has a deeply personal motivation for helping people understand their relationship with money. It is an intimate topic that can be filled with guilt, shame, or even fear. Many of these emotions and habits were learned from our parents growing up. He just did his first TED Talk this last week, “You’re not bad with money”. It will be out in a few months, but this was an interview he did the day before his TED Talk and you can hear a short version of his story.

I am so dang proud of him for what he has done for himself and the gift he continues to share with others as a Money Coach and the Founder of Budget Captain.

If you aren’t connected with him on LinkedIn, I would highly encourage you to do so!!

A quote that I've been sitting with this week:

Evoke Greatness Podcast: Latest Episode

Ep. 93 Unstoppable Grit: A Journey of Healing & Self Discovery with Danielle Cobo

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When life throws you curveballs, some buckle under the pressure while others, like Danielle Cobo, find a way to throw them right back.

On this episode I was delighted to host this remarkable woman who didn't just survive her husband's military deployment, the challenges of single-handedly raising twins, and the loss of her Mother; she thrived, channeling her experiences into the compelling narrative of "Unstoppable Grit." Her story isn't just about survival; it's a masterclass in transforming life's toughest moments into milestones of growth and resilience.

As we unravel the intimate details of navigating loss, redefining success, and building a legacy beyond the boardroom, this episode is a tribute to the power of storytelling and authentic leadership. It's about igniting change not just in your career but across every thread of your life, fostering environments that nurture growth and well-being for you and your team. We reveal the craft of personal branding that transcends conventional success metrics, spotlighting the impact we have on the lives we touch.

Concluding with actionable insights, we delve into effective strategies for preventing and recovering from burnout, and maintaining vitality even during the most challenging career transitions. From the simple yet profound practice of a weekly body scan to understanding the languages of appreciation within your team, these are tools designed not just for survival but for thriving.

Looking to elevate your business and/or leadership this year?

I am currently booking corporate workshops for 2024. I create customizable events and engagements to provide an indelible experience for your team.

20+ years in Healthcare leadership and the C-suite while leading thousands of people has helped me craft my unique and compelling style of experiential storytelling and engagement.

Relatability and resonance are key in creating experiences that transform people, their actions, and their outcomes.

➡️To chat about planning a workshop event for your company or team, book a call with me on the link below.