I scored under 1000 on my SATs. I graduated high school with a 2.7 GPA. And my first job out of school paid me $18,000 a year. Not exactly the kind of story that screams “success” or “future CEO,” right? Like many people, I started my journey feeling like I had everything to prove and a massive gap to close.

The Problem with Chasing the Grind

In the beginning, I thought it was all about the grind. Work harder. Prove people wrong. Climb out of the hole.

And for a while, that approach worked. It helped me build momentum and achieve professional milestones. I did that.

But somewhere along the way, the intensity of the hustle caused me to lose sight of who I really was. I started chasing recognition more than purpose. I focused on external validation more than my internal vision. This shift made the success feel hollow and ultimately unsustainable.

It took losing confidence, letting go of the insecurity, and getting real with myself to realize I was on the wrong path. The constant need for external approval was exhausting and distracting.

The Secret to a Life That Lasts

There’s a powerful principle that re-centered me. There’s a Bible verse that says:

“For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul” — Mark 8:36

That hit me. It forced me to ask the hard question: What’s the point of building all this: the career, the income, the status. If I lose who I am and what truly matters in the process?

Yes, this journey takes work. It requires discipline, grit, and effort. But the real, enduring secret hasn’t just been grinding; it’s been kindness.

It’s been love. It’s been truly caring about people: my clients, my team, and my community.

That is what actually builds trust. That is what creates authentic impact. And that is what actually lasts long after the deals close and the paychecks clear. When you lead with genuine care, your reputation becomes your greatest asset.

A Challenge for Builders and Entrepreneurs

If you’re in the middle of the grind right now, chasing a goal or climbing a mountain:

  • Keep building. Don’t stop working toward your vision.
  • But most importantly, don’t lose your soul along the way.
  • Lead with love.
  • Stay rooted.
  • And keep showing up as the best, most authentic version of yourself.

Your character will always outweigh your commission.