High-achievers know leadership isn’t just about titles—it’s about how you show up every day. Whether you’re leading a student organization, excelling in academics, or setting yourself up for future success, it all starts with leading yourself first. 

In the latest episode of the Cultivating Leaders podcast, Adam Carroll drops game-changing insights on leadership, financial freedom, and personal growth. These four habits will empower you to seek self-discipline and clarity in your own life. 

1. Know Where You’re Going  

“The most successful people have definiteness of purpose.” – Napoleon Hill  

Leaders don’t drift—they move with intention. Drifters get blown off course by every new opportunity. Non-drifters (aka leaders) are intentional. Keeping your goals front and center will help you make more intentional daily decisions. When faced with a new opportunity, ask yourself, “Does this opportunity bring me closer to my vision or distract me?” 

Take Action: Write a letter to yourself – three years from now. Describe to your future self your life, accomplishments, what you are doing, etc. The key is to write it as if it’s already happened. Once you are done, put it in a drawer and set a reminder in your phone for three years from now.  

2. Set Boundaries Like a Boss  

“Boundaries and expectations must be set to protect the life you’re trying to build.” – Adam Carroll 

Setting boundaries is essential for maintaining balance and protecting your time and energy. Saying no to distractions can be intimidating, but practicing effective ways to say no will help you stay focused on your ambitions. The best way to say no is to be direct but kind and use “I” statements. 

Practice: “I appreciate the opportunity, but I have to decline.” 

Pro tip: Protect your time like it’s your most valuable resource—because it is. Take time to identify what’s most important (academics, leadership roles, time with family, personal growth). 

3. Get Comfortable with Fearless Feedback  

“You have to be willing to accept fearless feedback. It might be hard, but it’s the key to growth.” – Adam Carroll 

The best leaders aren’t afraid of feedback—they seek it out. Growth comes from hearing the hard stuff. Get comfortable with asking mentors, friends, and professors to describe you as a leader and as a student or employee. Evaluate their assessment and use it as guidance for where you can grow. 

Pro Tip: Don’t take criticism personally—use it to level up. Make small, intentional changes based on what you learn.  

 
4. Make Smart Financial Moves Now  

“If you don’t understand the realness of debt, it’s easy to take on too much without realizing it.” – Adam Carroll 

Financial literacy isn’t just about avoiding debt—it’s about positioning yourself for long-term success. Many high-achieving leaders never reach their full potential because of financial stress. They get locked into high-interest debt, live paycheck to paycheck, or fail to invest wisely. Money, when mismanaged, becomes a barrier to leadership rather than a tool to create impact. 

Take Action: The easiest place to start is setting a budget. Following the 50/30/20 rule (50% of your income goes to necessities, 30% for your wants and 20% into a savings account) will help you reach your financial goals and limit stress. 

Lead Yourself Well Today, So Others Follow Tomorrow  

Success doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built through intentional choices. Implementing these habits into your daily routine will help you lead yourself well and take ownership of your life.  

Go deeper: Listen to the episode of the Cultivating Leaders Podcast with Adam Carroll to learn how to lead life on purpose—financially, professionally, and personally.