Resolutions or Goals?

Happy New Year!

 Welcome to 2024! We wish you a year packed with good health, love, and unforgettable moments with friends & family. We’re kicking things off with a fresh vibe in this newsletter. Take a peek at the article below, all about personal growth. Dive into the book recommendations from Sprucehill owner, Erik. Here’s to an amazing year of self-discovery and new reads!

Resolutions or Goals?  Either way, make them small and easily achievable.

Stepping into the role of Bossman at Sprucehill has been an incredible journey, and I’ve been fortunate to receive guidance from some phenomenal individuals and groups. Shoutout to Colin Cox, my leadership/business coach, and the Mackay CEO Forum, where I spent two enriching years. These experiences, coupled with insightful chats with amazing people, have undeniably shaped my journey – not just as a leader but also as a husband, dad, and now, a basketball coach.  To kick off the new year, I wanted to share some nuggets of wisdom I’ve picked up along the way. Below, you’ll find a brief glimpse into key themes that have stuck with me, along with some suggested resources if you’re hungry for more.

Leadership & Relationship Building:

Define the leader you aspire to be and surround yourself with a supportive team.

Acknowledge that many interpersonal issues stem from within.

How you feel towards someone will influence how they feel about you (or receive the information you are trying to relay). – Check out Leadership and Self Deception.

Repetition is key – embrace the fact that the average person needs to receive instructions or feedback seven times, seven different ways before it really sinks in.

Respect individual preferences for receiving feedback and recognition.

Approach disagreements with curiosity, not frustration or anger.

Lead by example; actions speak louder than advice.

When your spouse is upset, ask, “Comfort or solutions?”

Tailor communication to the audience’s preference for details. Some people want all the details upfront, some don’t.

Conduct start/stop/continue meetings at least once a year.

Habits:

Start small. Build towards what you are trying to achieve. Avoid making the small steps too big.

Small improvements over time yield massive outcomes. Rome wasn’t built in a day. (Google says it took 1229 years!)

Set long-term goals that are way beyond what you think is possible in your lifetime.

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As the head honcho at Sprucehill, I strive to embody these pearls of wisdom and encouraging our leaders to do the same. Our company has big plans for the coming year and even grander visions for 2025! We’d love for you to join us on this journey. Check out the list below for books that have inspired my growth – perhaps they’ll resonate with you too.

Leadership and Self Deception by The Arbinger Institute (2000)

Great book to reflect on oneself and see how what you bring to your relationships affects them. The way it’s written is really different. Easy read.

How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie (1936)

This is a must read. TBH, I think this should be mandatory reading in high school. The title says it all. I’m considering paying my kids to read it and write a book report.

Atomic Habits by James Clear (2018)

Learn the science of how habits are formed (good and bad) and practical strategies for making positive changes in your life. It is extremely well written and easy to read.

Start with Why by Simon Sinek (2009)

Explore the idea of starting with a clear sense of purpose and learn why it’s crucial for leaders and organizations.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey (1989)

Understand how these habits can have a transformative impact on your life and the lives of those around you.

The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman (1992)

If you haven’t already been exposed to this, it is a must for your personal relationships. There’s now an online quiz so you can learn what YOUR love languages are.

HOUZZ