Private Victories

Leaders must earn the right to lead. One of the prerequisites of leading others is demonstrating that you can manage yourself. Successful leaders build confidence by giving themselves private victories.

Private victories are the wins you give to yourself. In Admiral McRaven’s famous commencement speech he said, “Make your bed.” This is not housekeeping advice. It is a simple task that gives you a personal sense of accomplishment first thing in the morning.

I go even earlier in the day and say, “Do one push up.” That is, push yourself up out of bed with energy. Give yourself the gift of an extra 30 minutes each morning to read, reflect, think, and plan. Mentally prepare yourself to have a great day, every day.

Pick your own goals and routines that enable you to put yourself in a positive place and become a more influential leader. People follow those that they admire, and they admire those that exhibit optimism.  

Leaders are positive and confident people. They model the way by showing that they have their act together. Celebrate small, private victories to build momentum and create a solid foundation for dealing with adversity and achieving the harder things in life.