Many leaders say they want collaboration, but their actions tell a different story. Fear of losing control, credibility, or influence can create hidden barriers that stifle creativity and ownership. The result? A disengaged team playing it safe. So how do you recognize when self-preservation is holding you back—and what can you do about it? Let’s break it down.

We’ve all been there—wanting to give someone just one more chance, hoping things will turn around. But avoiding accountability early on doesn’t help them or your team. The Accountability Curve teaches us that the first 30-60-90 days set the tone. If you let things slide, you train your team that standards don’t matter.

A simple command—“secure for rough seas”—led to a chaotic mess because my team didn’t understand it the way I intended. That’s the Expectation Gap—the space between what you assumed would happen and what actually happened. Using the SAV framework (Specific, Aligned, Verified) helps close that gap and get the results you expect.

Most leaders unknowingly solve the wrong problems every day—reacting to symptoms instead of root causes. The SLAMM method (Stop, Look Around, Make a Call, Move) combined with The Hoosier Rule ensures smarter, more strategic decision-making. Want to lead with clarity and confidence? Learn how to apply these tools today!

SOF Truth #1 states: Humans are more important than hardware. The right people—not just tools or systems—determine success. If your business relies on a few key individuals, you’re at risk. Strong leadership is built by developing a deep bench. Ready to future-proof your team? Learn how to level up your leaders today!

You don’t see blind spots until someone points them out. A lesson from my Navy days taught me how my confidence was coming across as arrogance—and it was costing me influence. The best leaders develop self-awareness before leading others. Discover how to spot and fix the patterns holding you back!

Fear can be a silent enemy, building walls that limit trust and influence. In Special Operations, I learned firsthand how self-preservation—driven by fear of failure, insecurity, or the need to prove myself—can sabotage leadership. In this article, I’ll share how breaking that wall unlocks true influence.

Are you leading to build others up or tearing them down? Discover the power of ‘Calling Up vs. Calling Out’—a tool that shifts leadership from criticism to empowerment. Learn how to challenge others from a place of belief and transform your team’s trust, engagement, and performance.

In honor of his 55th birthday, our founder and CEO, Steve, shares 55 invaluable leadership lessons drawn from decades of experience. From embracing challenges to understanding the power of empathy, these insights offer practical wisdom for leaders at every level. Dive into Steve’s reflections and discover how to elevate your leadership journey.

What sets great leaders apart? It’s not just strategy—it’s mindset. Discover how the Leader Mindset, built on fighting for the highest possible good in those you lead, can elevate your leadership. Learn the five steps to become a leader who empowers, motivates, and drives lasting success.