Big Waves are challenges. Personal or professional, physical, mental, spiritual. It’s a mindset about doing hard things because you’re alive vs. checking things off a bucket list.

When I’m asked about how I hire great people the answer is simple. I look for folks who exhibit the signs of the Big Wave mindset. Those who roll out of bed in the morning (in all time zones) with a heart rate that matches what’s on their calendar for the day. Those who have a purpose bigger than the challenges they will face each day as they work towards accomplishing their goals. Those who seek greater responsibility and then kick ass doing big things vs. seeking that “title” or “raise”. They are passionate about life and what they do, purpose driven to overcome obstacles, they are not shy about getting their slice of pie because a single slice is not the objective.

These are my people! I hire them, set high expectations, and give them the resources they need to make great things happen. And guess what? They get those raises, exceed those bonus metrics, and achieve those titles. They do great things and more importantly they get things DONE!

Additionally, these people look for challenges in their daily life. They understand that moving walkways are for moving faster not less. When given the choice they take the stairs instead of riding the escalator. They turn over every stone in preparing to win the day and leave no gas in the tank while competing.

My Big Wave mindset friends have great DISCIPLINE. They understand that doing hard things takes sacrifice and that MOTIVATION alone isn’t enough. Whether they’re chasing metrics at work, or training for a marathon, it takes daily discipline to get up, lace up, and do the work needed for success. They prioritize based on what they want MOST and not what they want NOW. Choosing between drinking the bubbly the airline offers versus drinking your Drip Drop hydration. Or, sitting in a airline lounge versus doing a little duffle bag drag through the concourse. Healthy decisions that bolster your ability at work, home and play.

So… there you have it, it’s not about surfing, it’s Leadership, Growth and Purpose.

What is your next Big Wave?

-Brent