A Letter to Future Leaders (Including My Kids)

 

Key Thought

If you feel underqualified or overwhelmed by the thought of leadership… you’re in the right place.

To my children—Tenley, Asher, Hallie, and Sadie—and to anyone who wonders if they have what it takes to lead: This journey is for you.

I’ve faced plenty of hurdles trying to become a better leader. I still do. That’s why I wrote Leadership Beyond Limitations—not just as a leadership manual, but as a guide for anyone who wants to grow and lead others into something better. I haven’t released the book yet, but I’m sharing my writings with all of you first. The ones who have faithfully shown up to do the work day after day, even when it didn’t make sense.

I share this now to encourage you to keep pressing forward when you feel like you can’t keep going.

The truth is, we all hit the wall.

We all doubt.

And many of us face something called Impostor Syndrome.

 

What Is Impostor Syndrome?

It’s that inner voice whispering:

“You’re not ready.”“You don’t belong here.”“They’re going to find out you’re not as good as they think you are.”

It shows up when:

You downplay your accomplishments.You fear being “found out.”You overwork to prove your worth.

It’s not a mental illness, but it sure is a mental battle.

Here’s the good news: If you feel that way, you’re not alone. Most high achievers do. Your calling to lead isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being obedient. It’s about stewarding what God has placed in you.

Paul’s words in Romans 12:6-8 (NLT) say it clearly:

“If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously.”

 

The Gift of Leadership Needs Practice

Like any gift, leadership isn’t mastered overnight. You get better by doing the hard stuff—studying, trying, failing, learning, and trying again. You don’t have to know everything before you take the first step. You just need to trust that God knows—and He’ll equip you along the way.

 

Just Ask Joshua

Before he ever led anyone, Joshua watched Moses perform miracles. Then, when it came time for Joshua to lead on his own, it took courage—a lot of it.

So God told him in Joshua 1:9 (NLT):

“This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

You don’t need a title to start leading. You just need courage and a willingness to trust God in the unknown.

 

Next Content: When You Feel Like a Fraud—Lead Anyway

We’ll dive into how Moses wrestled with insecurity, fled to the desert, and still became one of the most powerful leaders in history… not because he was perfect, but because he was willing.