Upgrade Your Impact by Refreshing Your Inputs
Sandy Scott, FACHE, MPA
I coach physician leaders to drive patient-centered change — and achieve their impossible goals with ease
You won't get to the next level by mastering techniques or accumulating knowledge.?
The actual key to massive growth is?evolving into more of your true self .?
It boils down to having a proven process for?diving deeper into your inner world, and aligning more of your actions with that authentic self.? ?
Techniques and knowledge are a small part of that process.
Ready for another hard truth about growth?
The most aggravating parts of our external circumstances are usually limitations we put on ourselves, internally.??
Too often, our limitations are self-imposed by sticking to familiar routines and ways of thinking.
Like an oak tree needs fresh water and a balance of sunlight and darkness to thrive — we all need?a mix of new perspectives, experiences, and reflective pauses to grow and evolve.??
The quality and diversity of your “inputs”—the content you consume, the people you connect with, or the habits you cultivate—directly impact how you show up to others.
In this newsletter, I’m sharing resources that I often recommend to my clients, in the context of their unique circumstances and objectives.??
The resources organized into two categories:
Let’s begin.
11 fresh resources for emerging leaders who want to elevating their impact
Who Not How????
I used to think being efficient meant mastering every productivity hack out there. But I realized that true efficiency is about surrounding yourself with the right people—those who complement your strengths and help achieve your goals. This book is essential for any leader feeling overwhelmed by the need to do everything themselves.
???15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership
Staying positive and finding the silver lining used to be my go-to approach. But I've learned that true growth comes from radical honesty—about your thoughts, feelings, and your role in your own life. If you're feeling stuck or frustrated in your leadership, this book will help you take full responsibility for your journey and unlock new levels of empowerment.
Connect then Lead???
For the longest time, I thought my leadership game was all about speed—cranking through checklists, managing dashboards, and firing off emails like there was no tomorrow. The truth: real leadership is about slowing down and truly connecting with your people. This article flipped my perspective on its head and showed me why connection, not only matters more than productivity, it's a easier way?to increase productivity. If you’re tired of the hustle and want to lead with more impact, this is your playbook.
????Designing Your Life & Designing Your New Work Life
I believed that leadership was about creating great environments for others. But I've learned that it's equally important to design your own work life in a way that brings joy and fulfillment. These books are perfect for leaders who feel like they're just going through the motions and want to take control of their own happiness at work.
Find Your Why????
I once dismissed the idea that purpose and values were central to leadership. But I've come to see that they are the foundation of being an impactful leader. This book helps leaders reconnect with their "why," leading to more motivated and cohesive work environments. If you’re feeling disconnected, this resource will help reignite your passion.
???The Work of Leadership
Early on, I thought leadership was all about being in the thick of it—on the dance floor, so to speak, managing every detail. But the truth is, sometimes you need to step back and get up on the balcony to really see what’s going on. This article nails the balance between getting things done and understanding the bigger picture. ?A?must-read for emerging leaders who want to navigate change without getting lost in the weeds.
Jefferson Fisher Podcast????
Navigating conflict used to feel like preparing for battle—stressful and draining. But Fisher’s practical advice has shown me that with the right approach, conflict can actually strengthen relationships. This podcast is a must for leaders who want to handle difficult conversations with confidence and ease .
???The Big Leap & Your Genius Zone
I thought achieving goals would naturally lead to happiness. But these books taught me that our minds often sabotage us, keeping us from enjoying our successes. If you feel like you're constantly hitting a ceiling, this book will help you break through mental barriers and tap into your true potential.
The Coaching Habit???
I used to believe that when people asked for help, they wanted advice. But I've learned that giving advice too quickly can actually erode your effectiveness as a leader. This book offers seven essential questions that engage others in generating their own solutions, making it especially useful for growing leaders learning to step back and let others lead.
??♂??Bob Proctor's Abundance Meditation & Insight Timer's Yoga Nidras
I was once skeptical about meditation, thinking it was too "woo-woo" for serious professionals. But these practices have had a profound impact on my mindset and productivity. If you're open to exploring beyond your usual tools, these resources can offer surprising benefits, helping you manage stress and boost your focus.? Check out Bob Proctor's meditation and Insight Timer's Yoga Nidras .
Co-Active Coaching???
When I first came across the tools in this book, I was skeptical about their impact. But these frameworks, like the Life Wheel and Ideal Day, have transformed my approach to leadership and life. If you’re a leader constantly putting out fires, this resource will guide you toward a more intentional and balanced way of leading.
7 fresh resources for senior leaders who want to inspire others
Meta-Leadership and National Emergency Preparedness???
I used to think leadership was all about credentials and having the longest CV. But now I see that the most effective leaders are those who are agile, adaptive, and can build capacity across organizations. This article is critical for leaders in high-stakes environments who need to lead with both strength and flexibility.
????Multiplier Mindset with Dan Sullivan Podcast
I thought the best leaders worked around the clock so they always ‘have it together’. But Sullivan's VOTA framework—Vision, Opposition, Transformation, Action—has shown me that true leadership is about thinking smarter, not harder. This podcast is ideal for leaders looking to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset and achieve extraordinary results without burning out.
Find Your Why (With Your Team)???
I once thought finding purpose was a solo journey. But I've realized that helping your team discover their "why" can create a more motivated and cohesive group. If you're a leader seeking to inspire your team and align them with a common purpose, this resource will help you make that happen.
???Our Iceberg is Melting
Change management used to feel like just another task to check off. Now I understand that leading change is about coaching your team through it, helping them navigate uncertainty and come out stronger. This book is a practical guide for any leader facing significant change, offering tools to help you and your team thrive.
An Everyone Culture???
I thought professional development happened in structured sessions and workshops. But this book has shown me that real growth happens when development is woven into the daily fabric of work life. If you're looking to create a culture of continuous improvement, this resource will show you how to make it a natural part of your organization.
???Traction
I used to feel overwhelmed by the complexity of running a healthcare business. But the Entrepreneurial Operating System provided in this book offers a clear, integrative approach that aligns focus, growth, and enjoyment. If you're a leader struggling to manage everything, this book will help you streamline operations and achieve more with less effort.
Synchronicity & The Untethered Soul???
I used to dismiss books like these as too out there for serious leaders. But exploring different levels of consciousness has opened up new ways of thinking and being that have profoundly impacted my leadership. If you're ready to dive deep into your inner world and unlock new levels of growth, these books will guide you on that journey.? Here's Synchronicity and here's The Untethered Soul .
New perspectives can change everything in a moment
If we keep doing what got us here, we’ll stay here.?
Sometimes the biggest shifts in our lives are a result of a small shift in our inputs, especially when those inputs haven’t changed in a while.
Think of it like a well-worn trail in the mountains that's comfortable and familiar.? What if the view from a higher path is what you need?
Here's 3 takeaways to support you:
Here's 3 questions to spark you:
Your next breakthrough might just be one conversation—or one new resource—away.
Be well,??
Whenever you're ready, here's 3 ways I can support you:
BONUS:? A creative leadership hack from one of my coaches:?
"If you want to get better leading your team – or help a client become a better leader – try asking this simple question:
Tell me about the best leader you ever worked for…
Being a great leader isn't about following some cookie-cutter formula. It's about figuring out what makes each person on your team tick and rolling with it.
When you ask them about their favorite boss, you're not just making small talk. You're setting yourself up to be the leader your team really wants and needs.?
It's a small step that can make a big difference in how you connect with your people."