An idea (George Washington)

George Washington wasn’t the most polished speaker.

He didn’t win every battle.

He wasn’t even sure the revolution would succeed.

But through bitter winters, crushing losses, and staggering uncertainty, he kept showing up, and because he did, others kept believing.

Washington didn’t just lead by rank or strategy.

He led by presence, example, and courage in the face of impossible odds.

At Valley Forge, when his soldiers were starving and freezing, he was with them.

At the crossing of the Delaware, he was in the boat.

And when America needed a symbol of unity, humility, and quiet resolve, he became that symbol.

Here are five powerful leadership principles from Washington’s life, especially for those called to lead in the hard seasons.

1. Presence Is the Most Powerful Form of Leadership

When his army was sick, starving, and half-naked at Valley Forge, Washington didn’t send updates from afar.

He rode into camp daily.

He built fortifications with his men.

He stood beside them in the snow.

The Story:

Observers say Washington’s presence at Valley Forge was worth more than 10,000 reinforcements. His soldiers didn’t follow him because he had the answers. They followed him because he stayed when it would’ve been easier to leave.

“We must never despair. Our situation before has been unpromising, and has changed for the better; so I trust it will again.”

Do This Today: Identify someone on your team going through a difficult stretch, and show up physically or personally. No advice. Just presence.

Reflection Question: When times are hard, do I step forward or step away?

2. Lead by Raising the Standard

Washington knew that if he wanted his ragtag army to believe they were capable of defeating the world’s most powerful military, he had to raise their view of themselves.

So he bought them uniforms.

He enforced discipline.

He modeled dignity.

The Story:
When supplies were short, Washington spent his own money to ensure his troops looked the part of a professional army. Not because uniforms win battles, but because self-respect does.

“Discipline is the soul of an army.”

Do This Today: Look for one way to visibly raise the standard on your team, not through criticism, but through belief and investment.

Reflection Question: Am I helping people see who they are or who they could become?

3. Act Boldly When Others Hesitate

Washington’s leadership wasn’t passive.

It was bold.

When others expected retreat, he crossed a frozen river on Christmas night to launch a surprise attack—a move that changed the momentum of the war.

The Story:

On December 25, 1776, Washington led 2,400 men across the icy Delaware River to attack Hessian forces in Trenton. His army was outmanned, under-equipped, and exhausted, but the risk paid off. It reignited hope.

“Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth.”

Do This Today: Name one area where you’re playing it safe but know you need to take action. Take a bold first step today.

Reflection Question: Am I waiting for certainty or leading with courage in uncertainty?

4. Stay Grounded in the Hardest Moments

Washington was under constant criticism.

Congress undermined him.

Generals quit on him.

The war dragged on.

And yet, he never lost control.

He endured without ego, never letting emotion override mission.

The Story:
At Valley Forge, some of his own officers plotted to replace him. He knew. But he stayed focused on the bigger goal: keeping the army together and the cause alive. He didn’t lash out. He led through it.

“Perseverance and spirit have done wonders in all ages.”

Do This Today: Practice restraint today in one difficult interaction, not to suppress emotion, but to lead above it.

Reflection Question: When tested, do I react emotionally or respond purposefully?

5. Set the Tone . . . and Then Step Aside

Washington didn’t cling to power.

After two terms as president, he stepped down, even when many wanted him to stay.

His final act of leadership wasn’t a speech.

It was an exit that modeled how power should be held: loosely.

The Story:
In his Farewell Address, Washington warned against hyper-partisanship and unchecked ambition. His greatest legacy wasn’t winning; it was knowing when to walk away so the nation could learn to govern itself.

“Example, whether it be good or bad, has a powerful influence.”

Do This Today: Consider one way to step back so others can step up and grow.

Reflection Question: Am I leading in a way that multiplies or centers around me?

Washington’s Quiet Challenge

George Washington didn’t lead with flair.

He didn’t crave the spotlight.

But when conditions were the hardest and hope was fading, he showed up.

And others followed.

So here’s your challenge:

This week, take one action that your team can see, but that doesn’t benefit you.

Show up early and encourage someone who’s discouraged.
Step into the hard situation everyone’s avoiding.
Model excellence in the small things.
Or take a risk that requires courage, not applause.

As we enter Easter Sunday, I’m reminded that leadership—like life—often moves through darkness before renewal.

Washington led through brutal winters, staggering doubt, and moments when the outcome seemed lost.

But he stayed steady.

He chose hope.

With you on the journey,
Cal

A question

What critical opportunity are you hesitating on because you're afraid to fail publicly?

A quote and resource

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

— John 1:5

The Mission

I am on a mission to help thousands of leaders gain clarity, courage, community, and consistency in their lives. Thank you for joining me on this journey!

I'm rooting for you,

Cal

➡️ When you're ready, I can help you gain more joy and deep clarity with my Core Values Mini Course. It has helped over 150 leaders live a truly intentional life. Join here 🎯

Intentional Letter: Washington's Wisdom