Fill Your Cup… And Others’

A couple weeks back I took my oldest son, Bennett, out hunting where he was actively hunting alongside me for the first time. Just the two of us in the woods - it was quiet with cold air and snow, and brought the kind of solitude that makes you appreciate the littlest of sounds and things. 

Turkey clucking on the roost, squirrel hopping & digging in the leaves or an owl hooting in the distance. 

To me, success wasn’t about bringing something home… It was about the time we spent together. 

Watching Bennnett take it all in reminded me how much the woods and time together can teach us. That time in nature and with my son, filled my cup. 

So does sitting around the table with family, playing checkers and laughing at different stories that may or may not be exaggerated!

Conversely, what empties my cup? The clutter of busyness, the endless social scroll and the things on the list that look urgent but aren’t really that important...

The leadership lesson in all of this? Leading isn’t always about the big success or the loud banner moments. It’s about showing up in the moment, being present and creating space to connect and allow for others to grow. 

Caring enough about yourself, to intentionally fill your cup and that will allow you the opportunity to fill the cup of others … 

Just like in the woods with Bennett - some of the most important conversations happen quietly, shoulder to shoulder connecting, when no one is really watching.

-Bradie