Sightshift With Chris Mcalister

This is part 2 of our special series, Lead for Impact: The Big Idea. In this episode, we're looking into every leader's struggle and a crucial question: Are you leading for validation or for impact?   Tune in to learn: The Key Question for Leaders – Are you leading for validation or for impact? Discover how this question can transform your approach to leadership. Real-Life Leadership Struggles – Hear practical examples of leaders navigating the challenges of validation vs. impact in both work and personal life. The Validation Check Tool – Learn a simple, actionable framework to assess whether you’re leading from a place of calm and care or drifting into bitterness and frustration. Why Ambition Creates Pressure – Understand how doubts surface when pursuing big visions and how you can use them as fuel for growth rather than roadblocks. How to Embrace Sacrifice – Find out why truly impactful leadership requires embracing sacrifice and avoiding the trap of dread.   Tune in to explore these key insights

We’re excited to kick off a brand-new podcast series that dives deep into the principles from our book Lead for Impact.    In our first episode, Mark Stanifer and I set the stage for a journey that will challenge and inspire you to rethink your approach to leadership.   The heart of the episode revolves around a crucial question: “Are you leading for impact or validation?”    This is the question every leader needs to ask themselves. Your motives matter, and understanding whether you’re driven by a genuine desire to make a difference or by the need for personal validation is key to becoming a more effective leader. We dive into practical examples that show how the same action - like checking in on a team member or building a legacy - can be motivated by either impact or validation. It’s all about self-awareness and making sure your leadership is aligned with the right intentions. Join us in this series as we explore how you can lead with purpose and make a real difference. --------- CONNECT WITH US:

In today's episode, we’re diving deep into something that’s been absolutely revolutionary for me in over two decades of leadership development, and I think it could be for you too.   If you’ve ever hired someone and later thought, “What was I thinking?”—you’re not alone. The truth is, most leaders pick people based on temperament—how charismatic or extroverted they are—and hope that’ll translate into great leadership. But here’s the thing: that approach is flawed, and it can lead to some serious misses.   Mark and I sit down to talk about why building your team around temperament can cause inconsistency, bias, and missed opportunities. Instead, we introduce a shift—a template-based model that’s all about aligning your team with your vision and scaling leadership development across your entire organization.   I’m really excited about this conversation because we’re not just talking theory here. We’re giving you practical insights and a tool we’ve developed called the Identity Fear Quotient (IFQ) that can help

Are you driven by a vision for something that doesn’t exist yet, but you’re determined to make it a reality? Or perhaps you’re on the cusp of pursuing a significant goal and feeling that stirring inside you.    Our ‘5 Stages of a Vision’ framework will help you navigate the journey from conception to completion, categorizing what to expect and providing a map for each stage.    In our recent podcast episode, we delve into the Five Stages of Vision, providing a framework to help you navigate and triumph in your own leadership journey: Bothered: Identify the discomfort that drives you to change. Write down what’s not working and envision a better scenario. Prepare: Shift your mindset from "Can I?" to "How can I prepare for this to happen?" Gather the resources and support you need, while staying flexible. Execute: Communicate the problem, solution, and required actions clearly. Ensure everyone understands their role and the steps ahead. Focus: When facing criticism or challenges, respond by reiterating y

In this episode, Chris and Mark explore the transformative power of integrating play and fun into leadership.    Tune in to:  >> Discover how balancing intensity with playful activities can prevent burnout, boost creativity, and foster stronger team bonds.  >> Learn actionable strategies for celebrating successes, achieving peak flow states, and maximizing your team's mental capacity.  >> Uncover the essential mindset shifts that can lead to more effective, joyful, and impactful leadership.    Listen to hear more about the discipline of setting it all down, incorporating celebration and play, and how it can transform your leadership approach.    --------- CONNECT WITH US:

In this episode, we’re continuing to dive into the specific challenges of leading a business where one or more family members are involved. Today we’re looking at the dangers of getting stuck in a cycle of "I know best" leadership, which can stifle creativity, innovation, and growth in your family members. Learn the five negative consequences you might face by leading for validation, and discover the three key moments that signal a healthy succession plan is in place.    We’re diving into the following key topics: Leaders who prioritize validation over impact stifle creativity, innovation, and growth in their team members, especially family members. Family businesses can get stuck in a cycle of "I know best" leadership, which undermines morale and leads to disengagement. Secure leaders who are confident in their abilities create an environment where team members can learn, experiment, and take ownership. A healthy succession plan involves a vision transfer, public adoption of new systems implemented by the ne

In this episode, Chris McAlister and special guest Mark Stanifer delve into the intricate world of succession planning within family businesses. As leaders embark on this unique journey, the challenges they face are not just about business growth, but also about nurturing the relationships that form the foundation of their legacy. In this episode, you will learn: The Importance of Openness to Change: Discover how embracing change and considering different perspectives can lead to true innovation and growth in your family business. The Power of Clear Communication: Learn why clarity is crucial during transitions and how to effectively communicate your vision while allowing the next generation to contribute their ideas. Strategies for Relationship Building: Understand the significance of strengthening relationships within your family business and how it impacts a successful succession. Focusing on the Bigger Picture: Gain insights into how the true return on your investment extends beyond financial terms to the

In this episode, we explore the crucial mindset shift from leading for validation to leading for impact. Join us as we delve into the concept of envisioning leadership beyond the present moment and contemplating the impact of our actions when we're no longer in the picture. Key Takeaways: Leadership Vision Beyond the Moment: Discover why real leaders think beyond the present, imagining a future where they're absent. Learn how this mindset shapes the development of leaders who can thrive independently. Terrible Ending Points in Leadership Development: Uncover the pitfalls in common starting points like personality tests, HR practices, and hero dependence. Understand how these can become stumbling blocks rather than stepping stones in the journey of impactful leadership. Transformational Coaching: Explore the power of coaching that goes beyond asking questions. Find out how transformative coaching leads individuals through a process of personal growth and development, creating leaders who can navigate uncharted

In this episode, we’re talking about the power of an identity shift for impactful leadership. Learn how a robust leadership operating system, incorporating measurement, model, and method, can revolutionize the way you lead.  Key Takeaways: Identity Shift for Impact: The episode emphasizes the need for leaders to move beyond validation-seeking and embrace a profound identity shift for impact. It draws parallels to athletic achievements, highlighting the necessity of systematic approaches to greatness rather than relying on isolated moments. Leadership Operating System: The concept of a leadership operating system is introduced, comprising three essential elements: measurement, model, and method. Measurement involves gaining a deep self-view through tools like the IFC, while a reliable model, exemplified by "Be the Tree," provides a metaphorical framework. The method encourages an identity shift, emphasizing the importance of clarity in mission and community building. Building a Secure Identity: The method stre

Imagine looking back on your work life decades from now. Will it be fulfilling just because you managed your inbox and attended every meeting?  In today's corporate landscape, where drudgery often leads individuals to seek meaning elsewhere, the episode challenges this escape. It prompts us to confront the deeper issue—the quest for meaning is intertwined with our identity. Work, the episode argues, is a potent context for self-knowledge and transformation.  It's not merely about tasks; it's about who we are becoming.  Key Takeaways: Leading for Validation vs. Impact: The episode delves into the crucial distinction between leading for validation and leading for impact. It challenges leaders to reflect on their motives, emphasizing that work isn't just about completing tasks but about the person they are becoming in the process. The Impact Leader's Struggle: The concept of the Impact Leader's Struggle is explored, highlighting the external and internal pressures that come with ambition. The episode urges leade

In our latest podcast episode, "Lead for Impact, Not Validation," Chris dives deep into the world of self-mastery, doubts, and motives.  Key Takeaways:  Discovering Self-Mastery and Purpose: Leadership thrives on self-mastery and understanding one's core motivations. By exploring the depths of personal identity and uncovering the "why" behind leadership roles, individuals transition from seeking validation to leading with genuine impact. Embracing Doubts for Growth: Doubts are not stumbling blocks but stepping stones to growth. Leaders are encouraged to confront and learn from their doubts, using them as opportunities for personal and professional development. Embracing doubts becomes a pathway to resilience and a secure motive. Beyond Psychological Safety for Real Growth: Psychological safety is a tool, not the goal. Leaders should create environments where mistakes fuel growth, doubts spark curiosity, and real results drive continuous development. This approach distinguishes impactful leaders who foster gen

Welcome to “Lead for Impact, Not Validation” session 6, where we explore impactful leadership. This episode focuses on the first key component of impact – action.  We challenge the common view of empathy, highlighting its role as a starting point for meaningful action. Discover the pitfalls of overemphasizing empathy and the crucial role of mercy in impactful leadership.  Key Takeaways: Empathy as a Starting Point, Not an Endpoint: Challenge the traditional role of empathy in leadership; view it as the initial step guiding leaders to feel the suffering of others. Instead of dwelling on emotions, leaders are urged to use empathy as a guide towards actions that actively alleviate suffering and make a genuine impact. The Power of Mercy in Leadership: Explore the distinctions between sympathy, empathy, and mercy in leadership. Recognize the transformative power of mercy, an active response that goes beyond understanding or sharing someone's pain. True leaders end suffering through merciful actions, emphasizing th

Welcome to Part 5 of the “Lead for Impact, Not Validation” series where we delve into the transformative power of mindfulness in leadership.  Mindfulness serves as a starting point, allowing leaders to separate from overwhelming circumstances and emotions. Join us as we explore the necessity of a mindset UPGRADE, empowering leaders to engage situations with right action and motive. Learn the secrets to mindful leadership beyond validation, fostering a mindset for genuine impact.  The episode emphasizes the importance of leaders being aware of their values to maintain a healthy balance. Tune in for practical strategies to upgrade your mindset, elevate your impact, and lead with authenticity.  Key Takeaways:  Mindfulness as a Starting Point: Emphasizes the importance of mindfulness as a starting point for leaders. It's a tool to separate oneself from overwhelming circumstances, emotions, and insecurities. However, it's highlighted that mindfulness alone is not the endpoint; it should lead to a mindset upgrade.

Welcome to Part 4 of the “Lead for Impact, Not Validation” series. Leadership, a continual test faced in circumstances, relationships, and ambitions, lacks a clear definition. Without standardized metrics, leaders often resort to validation over impact, guided by subjective measures of success.   Key Takeaways: Redefining Impact: Impact is not a singular score but a dynamic interplay of values, actions, and motives. Leaders must avoid overvaluing and undervaluing aspects based on personal insecurities. Balancing Values in Action: Your values drive your leadership, but understanding when to intensify or ease up on them is crucial. Striking a balance in values ensures you don't become a mere reflection of insecurities. Impact Equation: Impact is an equation - the sum of the right action and the right motive. A leader's actions can be overdone or underdone based on insecurities. The motive, why you take a particular action, shapes your leadership neurologically. 51% Rule for Motive: Achieving perfection in altru

In this episode of the “Lead for Impact, Not Validation” series, we delve deep into the pervasive insecurities that impact leaders at every stage of their journey. Whether you're a seasoned executive or just starting your leadership ascent, understanding and addressing insecurities are crucial for authentic and impactful leadership. Key Takeaways: Spectrum of Leadership Emotions: Explore the spectrum of sacrifice, dread, calm, anger, caring, and bitterness. Plot your current state on these scales to gain self-awareness and refine your leadership style. Behaviors of Insecure Leadership: Recognize the subtle signs of insecurity, from leading to be needed to avoiding necessary conflicts. Understand how these behaviors can undermine your leadership impact. Validation Check: Engage in a simple yet powerful exercise to assess your current approach to leadership. Identify areas for growth and discover actionable steps to enhance your leadership style. Unraveling the Ritual Void: Leaders traditionally derived meaning

In this episode, we unravel the pervasive insecurities that impact leaders at all levels. Whether you're just starting or are an advanced leader, insecurities shape our responses.  Key Takeaways: The Spectrum of Sacrifice, Dread, Calm, Anger, Caring, and Bitterness: Plot your current state on these scales to gain awareness of your leadership style. Behaviors of Insecure Leadership: Recognize the signs, from leading to be needed to fearing conflict, and learn how they affect your impact. Validation Check: Use a simple yet powerful exercise to assess your current approach to leadership and identify areas for growth. Tune in to learn how to navigate the intricacies of leadership insecurities, paving the way for a new era of impactful and authentic leadership.   CONNECT WITH US:

Welcome to Part 1 of our new series, "Lead for Impact, Not Validation"! In our first episode, we dissect the fundamental flaws in leadership and embark on a journey to transform validation-driven leadership into impactful influence. Key takeaways: The Core Leadership Flaw: Explore the common pitfall of leading for validation instead of making a lasting impact. Personal Insights: Gain profound insights from personal stories that sparked a shift from validation to genuine influence. Three Essential Shifts: Unpack the Horizon, Head, and Heart shifts crucial for effective leadership. Validation vs. Influence: Understand the transformative power of shifting from validation-seeking to impactful leadership. Join us in this 10-part series for deep insights, transformative ideas, and a profound understanding of yourself. It's a journey of self-discovery and leadership evolution.   CONNECT WITH US:

Get ready to elevate your leadership game with insights that bridge generations and secure identities. Welcome to a game-changing journey that reimagines leadership in a topsy-turvy world.    Learn how leaders thrive amid disorientation, setting the stage for a brighter future. Embrace the new normal and unlock your true leadership potential.    Tune in now and embark on the path to a redefined, impactful leadership experience.   CONNECT WITH US:

In this episode of our "Leadership Would Be Easy, Except for The People" series, we dive deep into the leadership paradox that often goes unnoticed. Discover how to navigate the delicate balance between serving the organizational vision and nurturing the growth of your people.   ** Explore the path to becoming a team-centric leader, committed to both the organization's mission and individual well-being.   ** Gain insights into how leaders can harmonize the interests of the organization and the individuals within it.   ** Embrace the challenge of fostering continuous self-improvement and relationship renewal.   ** Learn why wisdom in leadership comes from finding the next right step when there are conflicting demands between the organization and its people.   Join us on this journey to become the kind of impact leader who enjoys the fruit of deep and evolving relationships, both personally and professionally.   CONNECT WITH US:

In this episode, we delve into the crucial concept of the Heart Shift in leadership.  Join us as we explore the transformative journey of investing in relationships within your team, understanding that teams are dynamic entities, and shifting from frustration to fascination with team dynamics.  Discover how adopting these principles can help you become a more effective and impactful leader, fostering growth and unity within your organization. We’re talking about:  The Perfect Team Myth: Many strive for the 'perfect' team from day one with precise roles and compensation. But here's the truth – that 'perfect' target is ever-evolving. Dynamic Teams: Understand that your team at journey's end won't mirror the one you started with. People change, and so do you. Embrace this change, don't resist it. Embrace Transformation: Break free from the cycle of loving new team members and resenting them when they depart. This mindset stems from insecurity and can be transformed for better leadership.   CONNECT WITH US: