Throughout my life, I have had the privilege of wearing many hats. I played football and hockey in high school, boxed in the Silver Mittens and Golden Gloves, coached baseball, and served as a Scoutmaster for several years. Later, I moved into the world of corporate finance and eventually ran my own tax practice. Looking back, I realize that the lessons I learned on the field, in scouting, and in the office have all shaped the way I approach leadership. These experiences taught me that while the environments may differ, the principles of guiding people and building teams remain remarkably consistent.
Leading by Example
In sports, leadership is often most effective when it is demonstrated rather than demanded. As a player, I saw how actions speak louder than words. The effort you put in, the discipline you maintain, and the way you treat teammates sets the standard for others. This lesson carried over directly into my work as a Scoutmaster and later as a financial professional. People respond to leaders who show commitment and integrity through their actions. Whether it is leading a baseball team or guiding a client through complex financial decisions, demonstrating the values you expect from others builds respect and trust.
The Power of Teamwork
Team sports taught me the value of collaboration. No football or hockey player can win alone, and the same holds true in business and community work. In scouting, I saw how young men learned to rely on each other, share responsibilities, and celebrate achievements together. In business, successful outcomes often depend on everyone doing their part, from junior staff to executives. Encouraging teamwork, recognizing contributions, and fostering an environment where each member feels valued is a leadership principle that translates across every area of life.
Discipline and Consistency
Boxing in Silver Mittens and Golden Gloves taught me discipline like no classroom ever could. Success in the ring requires consistent effort, attention to detail, and a willingness to face challenges head-on. In business, the same qualities matter. Managing finances, ensuring compliance, and running a practice require consistent effort, careful planning, and the ability to persevere when obstacles arise. Leadership involves modeling this discipline and helping others stay on track while navigating complex tasks.
Mentorship and Developing Others
One of the most rewarding aspects of scouting was helping young men earn their Eagle Scout rank. Mentoring these boys required patience, guidance, and the ability to recognize each person’s strengths and weaknesses. Leadership is not just about directing; it is about developing others. The same principle applies in business. Whether guiding a colleague, advising a client, or training a new team member, investing in others’ growth creates stronger, more capable teams and leaves a lasting impact.
Decision-Making Under Pressure
Sports and business both demand clear thinking under pressure. On the field, you make split-second decisions that can affect the outcome of the game. In business, especially in finance and tax planning, decisions can have lasting consequences for clients and their families. Learning to remain calm, evaluate options quickly, and act decisively has been essential in all areas of my life. Leadership often means taking responsibility for those decisions and guiding others through uncertainty.
Integrity as a Guiding Principle
In scouting, sports, and business, integrity is non-negotiable. Your word, your actions, and your commitment to doing the right thing define your reputation. I have found that people follow leaders they trust and respect. Whether coaching baseball, mentoring scouts, or advising clients on financial matters, maintaining integrity creates a foundation for meaningful relationships and long-term success.
Adaptability and Lifelong Learning
No matter how prepared you are, challenges will arise. Injuries on the field, unexpected changes in team dynamics, new regulations in business—each requires adaptability. Leadership is about guiding others through change while remaining focused on long-term goals. Over the years, I have learned to view challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, whether teaching scouts new skills, adjusting game strategies, or navigating complex financial regulations for clients.
The Joy of Service
Finally, leadership is most rewarding when it includes service. Coaching, scouting, and working with clients are all forms of service that allow you to make a difference in other people’s lives. Helping someone achieve a goal, whether earning a merit badge, winning a game, or securing financial stability, provides a sense of purpose that goes beyond personal success. Leadership rooted in service inspires loyalty, respect, and long-term impact.
Final Thoughts
The lessons from the field, the scouting troop, and the office have all shaped my understanding of leadership. Leading by example, fostering teamwork, maintaining discipline, mentoring others, making decisions under pressure, upholding integrity, embracing adaptability, and serving others are principles that transcend any single environment.
Whether on the sports field, guiding scouts, or managing a financial practice, these leadership principles remain the same. They have taught me that leadership is not about a title or position; it is about how you influence, support, and empower the people around you.
I am grateful for the experiences that shaped me and the people I have had the privilege to lead and serve. These lessons continue to guide me every day, both professionally and personally, and I believe they are as relevant today as they were on the playing fields of my youth.