It’s been a full week, interviews for staff, laying the foundation for a personal assistant, and meeting with colleagues, customers, and leaders about the future of the bank. One of the questions I kept hearing was about productivity: How do you do so much? I was told my productivity inspires some people, but also confuses them. They wonder if they can do what I do at the same level with fewer hours.

In the middle of those conversations, I was reminded of something a pastor once said: “Everybody wants the stage, but nobody wants to do the work to get to the stage.”

That landed because people often see outcomes but not the years it’s taken to sharpen my systems, build perspective, and expand capacity. I’m mindful of how others perceive what I do, but the truth is, nothing happens overnight. Balancing my main hustle at the bank with side hustles—board service, investments, book writing, and projects, requires discipline and intentionality.

One principle I hold close: everything I commit to must align with my larger purpose. It has to add value, sharpen my leadership, or strengthen what I get to do at the bank. Social media only offers a glimpse, not the full picture. Leadership is about embracing the process, not skipping it.

“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.” — Zechariah 4:10