TCL107 - Stop looking at the stars - Look right ahead

The Coaching Leader - by IntelliCoach

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In this episode, I’m sharing a pattern I’ve noticed among leaders over the years—the tendency to copy routines of high-profile CEOs, hoping it will lead to success. Imagine a new team lead like Maria, trying out productivity apps, waking up at 4:30 a.m., and reading a book every week, all because she saw her favorite CEO do it. After a few weeks, she’s exhausted and feeling like a failure. What Maria doesn’t realize is that these habits reflect the CEOs' current lifestyles, not what helped them get there in the first place.

Main Ideas:

● Why copying senior leaders’ habits can set you up for frustration.

● How “empathy gaps” make it hard for top leaders to remember the struggles of early roles.

● The power of "next-level mentoring"—learning from people who’ve just overcome the challenges you’re facing.

● Practical ways to connect with mentors who can share relevant, real-time advice.

I’ve found that getting guidance from someone just a step ahead—someone who has recently dealt with similar hurdles—often makes a bigger impact. These mentors can offer advice that’s fresher, more practical, and in tune with your current reality.

If you’re curious about finding the right mentors who truly understand your journey, I think you’ll find this episode especially helpful.