I love coaching and mentoring! The discovery, the breakthroughs, the transformation that unfolds when someone commits to change over time—these are the moments that fuel my joy. While inspiration and epiphanies are wonderful to witness, what truly moves me is watching courage and dedication translate into lasting change. And then, celebrating together when someone reaches their destination? That’s pure joy.

What motivates us to pursue change remains something of a beautiful mystery. We’re holistic beings driven by survival, connection, meaning, purpose, and spiritual grounding—all while seeking the joy of progress along the way. Each sunrise offers hope for something new, fresh, and fulfilling.

Yet we’re also bound by realities that hold us back: limiting beliefs, clouded thinking, tangled emotions, and battles with our past. We’re complex, messy people carrying failings, weaknesses, and regrets. But here’s what amazes me: we possess unbelievable capacity, resilience, and reserves to press forward anyway.

For over fifteen years, my mornings have begun with prayer, reading, and reflection—pursuing perspective, wisdom, and courage for the day ahead. My longtime prayer is simple: “Father, give me the wisdom to work, courage to lead, and faith to believe.” This prayer reveals who I hope to become. More than any achievement, I want to be known as a man of faith, wisdom, and courage.

Now in my fifties, I’m more focused on the person I’m becoming than what I hope to accomplish. Yes, I have goals and places to go, but character matters most.

As you pursue your goals this year, I’m one of your biggest cheerleaders! But I encourage you to reflect: Why do these pursuits matter? How will they shape who you’re becoming?

Last year, I created the True North resource to help you reflect on your focus for the year. As we step into 2026, may it guide your journey toward authentic growth.

Happy New Year!

Download the TrueNorth Guide. Go to www.theadvance.net/truenorth