Going First

2026-03-23

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I recently sat in a room of strangers — different backgrounds, different everything — and within an hour we were sharing grief and shame. Heavy stuff for a Saturday morning. But here's what I keep relearning: connection doesn't require similarity. It requires honesty. And somebody has to go first. In this week's Good Vibes Leadership, that's the thread — what happens when you're willing to go first, whether that's in a living room or a boardroom. Takeaways Going first changes the room: The person who says the t...

I recently sat in a room of strangers — different backgrounds, different everything — and within an hour we were sharing grief and shame. Heavy stuff for a Saturday morning. But here's what I keep relearning: connection doesn't require similarity. It requires honesty. And somebody has to go first. In this week's Good Vibes Leadership, that's the thread — what happens when you're willing to go first, whether that's in a living room or a boardroom.

Takeaways

Going first changes the room: The person who says the tough true thing sets the tone for everyone else.
Honesty over sameness: You don't need common ground to connect — you need courage.
Your Challenge: Think about the rooms you're in this week. Will you be willing to go first?

Good Vibes to Go: Check out the comedy of ALOK — they're on tour and genuinely hilarious. One of our own team members is driving from Chicago to Grand Rapids just to see them. That's a good vibe.

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