Approval Doesn’t Equal Leadership

Let’s talk about something no one tells you until it’s too late:

Approval is addictive—and empty.

When I was younger, I lived for it. I wanted to be the favorite.
I tried to be everything for everyone: the coach’s easiest player, the teammates’ go-to, the parents’ pride.

And you know where it got me?

Nowhere that mattered.

Sure, I got some praise. Some smiles. Maybe even a few extra innings.
But I also got burnt out.
I lost track of why I played in the first place.
Worse—I lost sight of who I was when no one was watching.

Then I started asking better questions:

• What kind of leader am I when I don’t get credit?

• Can I cheer for others when they succeed?

• Can I keep my standard high without a spotlight?

That’s when real growth started.

Leadership isn’t about being liked—it’s about being reliable.
It’s about being steady. Trusted. Accountable.

So if you’re stuck in the cycle of chasing approval, let this be your wake-up call:

Stop playing for applause. Start playing with purpose.

Be the kind of athlete people remember—not because you were the favorite, but because you made the people around you better.