Achieving greatness is never easy, but the path to success doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right roadmap and the wisdom of one of history’s most influential leaders, you can stay focused, overcome obstacles, and press forward with confidence. Let’s dive in.
The Apostle Paul writes in Philippians 3:13-15, “But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead,I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you.” (ESV)
Paul was an elite leader. He was clear on his mission, relentless in execution, and unwavering in his commitment. In this passage, Paul outlines three essential leadership values —Focus, Forgetting, and Faithfulness — that separate great leaders from the rest.3 Steps to Winning and Accomplishing Anything of Great Value
If you want to lead at the highest level, these principles must define you.1. Focus: The Power of One Thing
Paul begins by saying, “But one thing I do.” Great leaders are not distracted leaders. They understand that doing a thousand things poorly is far less effective than doing one thing with excellence. The best leaders I know are laser-focused. Whether it is growing a business, developing a team, leading a church, or coaching a championship-caliber team, they are dialed in. The best leaders eliminate distractions, prioritize what truly matters, and commit to the mission with everything they have. Legendary coaches like Nick Saban call it “The Process.” They focus on what they can control — effort, preparation, execution — not the noise around them. Great leaders, like Paul and perhaps you, focus on the mission ahead and do not waver. Application: What is the “one thing” you must focus on right now? Define it, prioritize it, and execute it relentlessly.2. Forgetting: Letting Go of the Past
Paul says, “forgetting what lies behind.” This is a game-changer. Leaders who dwell on the past — either in past successes or failures — become stagnant. Too many leaders are shackled by yesterday. Maybe you had a failure that embarrassed you. Maybe you had a success that you keep reliving but are not building on. Either way, dwelling on the past keeps you from moving forward. Paul reminds us that leaders who win do not let their past define them — they let their future drive them. The best leaders learn from their past but refuse to let it hold them back. They release regret, forgive mistakes (including their own), and keep moving forward. Application: What past failure — or even past success — do you need to let go of? Give yourself permission to release it and press forward.3. Faithfulness: Pressing On No Matter What
Finally, Paul says, “I press on toward the goal.” Faithfulness is about persistence. It is about showing up, day in and day out, even when things get hard. It is about finishing what you start. Leadership is not about quick wins; it is about sustained impact. Anyone can start well, but only the faithful finish well. The greatest leaders keep pressing forward even when the obstacles mount, the criticism intensifies, and the results are not immediate. Faithful leaders do not quit — they endure. Application: Where do you need to press on? What challenge do you need to push through with faithfulness?Conclusion
Paul gives us a leadership roadmap in Philippians 3:13-15 — Focus, Forgetting, and Faithfulness. Leaders who master these principles are the ones who truly make an impact. Stay locked in on your calling. Let go of what is behind. Keep pressing forward. That is how great leaders win.FREE Helpful Resource
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