Leading with Courage, Candor, and Heart: A Personal Reflection

I want to share something that might surprise you: I don’t always get it right.

Yes, I speak often about leadership—about courage, candor, and leading with heart—but the truth is, I am just as human and imperfect as anyone else. Leadership isn’t a pedestal I stand on; it’s a path I walk, often stumbling, sometimes doubting, and always learning.

There are times when I lead out of emotion instead of discipline and focus. I’ll catch myself reacting rather than responding with intentionality. Other times, I’ve delayed the tough conversations I know need to happen—conversations that could build trust and clarity—only to realize later that I should have faced them head-on. There have even been moments when I’ve withdrawn, pulling back from my team when what they needed most was my presence.

Each time, I’ve had to check myself.

And to be candid, even putting these thoughts into writing—or speaking about them on different platforms—is not easy for me. There are moments when I feel like an imposter, or worse, a hypocrite. After all, how can I stand here encouraging others to do what I sometimes struggle to live out consistently myself? But here’s what I’ve come to believe: the message still matters. The disciplines of courage, candor, and heart aren’t diminished by my shortcomings. In fact, they’re strengthened by the reality that they require constant work.

I truly believe in these subjects because I’ve seen the difference they make. Every time I’ve leaned into courage and candor, even when uncomfortable, the outcome has been better than the alternative. Every time I’ve chosen to lead with heart—listening instead of lecturing, connecting instead of commanding—the impact has been positive. Those moments remind me that this work is worth it.

One of the greatest gifts in my journey has been accountability partners—people I trust who are willing to hold up the mirror and remind me of the leader I strive to be. And just as powerful has been the willingness to ask my team for feedback, not once, not occasionally, but consistently. When they speak, I listen—because their perspective helps me grow.

Here’s the heart of my message: I’m not talking at you. I’m listening with you.

I’m learning right alongside you. I’m reminded daily that leadership is not a destination, but a discipline. It takes courage to admit when we’re wrong, candor to speak truthfully even when it’s uncomfortable, and heart to keep showing up for those we serve.

I also believe this: every single one of us has the ability to lead in some capacity. Leadership isn’t about a title or position; it’s about influence, choices, and impact. When we unlock the full potential inside of us, the effect on this world is positively profound. And right now, the world doesn’t just need more opinions, blame, or identification of problems—it needs leaders willing to step forward with courage, candor, and heart. That kind of leadership changes the world for the better.

A Personal Story

Not long ago, I found myself avoiding a conversation with a team member. I knew it was needed, but I kept putting it off—telling myself I’d handle it tomorrow. The truth? I was worried it might be uncomfortable.

Finally, I reminded myself: check yourself, Joe. So, I leaned in. I chose courage and candor instead of delay.

When we sat down, I spoke honestly but with heart. I shared the feedback, but I also reminded them of the strengths I saw in them and the belief I had in their potential.

To my surprise, the conversation didn’t just go well—it strengthened our relationship. The team member thanked me for being real with them. They told me it gave them clarity and motivation they had been missing.

That moment reminded me why I believe so strongly in these principles. Courage, candor, and heart don’t just make me a better leader—they create space for others to grow, too.

My passion is to help others grow, not because I’ve mastered it, but because I am on the journey too. Every misstep, every self-check, every lesson learned becomes a tool I can pass along to someone else.

So, if you’ve ever led out of emotion, put off the tough conversation, or pulled back when you should have leaned in—know this: you’re not alone. I’ve been there too. Together, we can keep moving forward, imperfect but committed, human but growing, flawed yet striving to lead with courage, candor, and heart. -Joe