In times when I feel unmoored, I find myself leaning on the wisdom of two individuals I’ve studied over my leadership journey and continue to admire: Admiral James Stockdale and Fr. Gregory Boyle. They come from vastly different worlds—one a decorated naval officer and Vietnam POW, the other a Jesuit priest and founder of Homeboy Industries. When I find myself in a season of heavy-hearted leadership, I call upon the lessons I’ve learned from these two leaders. These lessons provide a path forward when the weight of the world feels unbearable. I hope they do for you as well.

There’s something incredibly powerful about watching an organization’s mission expand when the evidence shows lives are being changed. The question becomes: Why wouldn’t we do more, if we could? One of the key challenges in any expansion is ensuring we stay true to the organization's culture and values, while also staying innovative. How do we replicate what works without losing what makes us unique? Using the Fixed, Flexible, and Free model helps provide a framework for this balance.

In my work with nonprofits and leaders, we often explore the difference between excellence and perfection. Upon reflection, my dad’s craft and life gave me a wonderful guide. He was a guy of many words – loved to tell stories and impart his wisdom to us kids. Yet, more is often caught than is taught. In his final months earthside, it wasn't easy to express what he left me with because he refused to give up. So, as a tribute to him, and in honor of all of us seeking imperfect excellence, I’ll share them with you.

Maycember. Mad May. Manic May.

These are the terms many have used in conversation as we’ve discussed the unique pressures this month bears for working and even non-working parents. While I believe the demands on parents were growing before COVID-19, something changed post-pandemic. I’m wondering if three emergent trends have led us to where we are today.