The Battle Going on with Ambitious Leaders

The following was written as a reflection from a season when I pursued becoming an executive pastor years ago that led to a long wilderness season of struggle and disappointment.

Life has a bent towards wearing us thin, sapping our vitality, and leaving us drained and weary.

When exhaustion sets in, what steps do we take?

The hunger for love and genuine living often differs from reality. The discipline to train our minds, bodies, and souls for growth seems overshadowed by the ceaseless chase for success.

Imagine having a goal, dream, or longing. You pursue it, making sacrifices along the way, only to find yourself becoming a mere shadow of who you once were.

In my observation, ambitious and accomplished leaders are trained to suppress emotions. They proudly wear the badge of success and composure, yet inside, they're battling pure fatigue.

If emotions do surface, they emerge as anger, withdrawal, and numbness.

Sometimes, joy, love, desire, or connection seem out of reach.

But why does this matter?

There is a struggle for the human heart.

Specifically, a struggle to persuade more leaders to intertwine success with exhaustion. This often results in a half-hearted existence, forsaking the fullness of life found in Jesus.

The inner lives of many leaders echo with restlessness.

Rather than embarking on a journey of wholeheartedness, many opt for a path leading to a cycle of depression, anger, and burnout.

Amid doubts, disappointments, and discouragement, it's tempting to continue burying emotions, desires, and the longing for an abundant life. But, consider this:

What if you paused to explore the restlessness within you?

St. Augustine pondered...

To praise You is the desire of man, a little piece of Your creation. You stir man to take pleasure in praising You, because You have made us for Yourself, and our heart is restless until it rests in You.

What if I shared that there's a way to lead an authentic, wholehearted life and still achieve your aspirations?

It begins with the courage to be honest with yourself, shedding the weight of keeping it all together. Then, it unfolds as a journey to reclaim your heart.

Ask yourself:

• How is my heart?
• When did I lose my heart?
• What does my heart truly need, desire, or long for?
• How can I start the process of reclaiming my heart for a fulfilling life?

The path to restoring the leader's heart is for the bold few. May you embark on the journey of becoming a wholehearted leader and reach out to trusted friends, mentors, and your personal board of advisors to help you.

Remember, "Take heart, for I have overcome the world." - Jesus

Be Strong,

Lantz Howard

I serve as a trusted advisor to CEOs, senior executives, and business owners, supporting their success through strategic growth, navigating challenges, and enhancing leadership vitality. Send a message on LinkedIn or access my calendar for a time to talk.