Still Winning but No Longer Lit Up? Read This.
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Last week, I posted a video on LinkedIn.
Over 400,000 people watched it.
1,800+ hit like.
300+ shared it with their own audience.
It clearly struck a nerve.
I said this:
“I had the title. The office. The wins.
But I wasn’t lit up anymore.
I didn’t want another promotion—I wanted a calling.”
That message landed because so many executives feel it too. They're still winning on paper, but something inside feels off. Empty. Disconnected.
This week, I had dinner with 20 CIOs in Manhattan Beach. I asked them what they want more of and their answers mirrored that post perfectly:
They want time with their families.
They want the freedom to travel.
They want to do work that matters, on their terms.
So, if you’re feeling that too, this one’s for you. Here are 5 things you need to know if you’re successful but restless:
I.
Winning is not the same as fulfillment.
You can be crushing your KPIs and still feel empty. Promotions, paychecks, and praise don't mean you're on the right path. They just mean you're good at the game.
Try this:
Ask yourself, “What would I run toward if I could start over?”
II.
You're not selfish for wanting more.
Wanting purpose isn’t flaky. It’s human. You don’t have to apologize for craving more meaning, flexibility, or joy in your work.
Try this:
Flip the script. What if staying where you are is the bigger risk?
III.
Your next chapter doesn't have to be a leap, it can be a build.
You don’t need to walk away tomorrow. But you do need to start building what’s next… slowly, intentionally, on the side if needed.
Try this:
Block one hour a week for future-you. Guard it. Explore.
IV.
You have more leverage than you think.
You're not 25. You’ve got experience, relationships, and hard-earned wisdom. You don’t need to “start over.” You get to start strong.
Try this:
Inventory your reputation assets. What do people already come to you for?
V.
The real goal isn’t escape, it’s alignment.
Don’t just run from the job. Build toward a life that feels right. One where your values, strengths, and work all point in the same direction.
Try this:
Define success without using a job title or company name.
Your Unignorable Move
If your life looks impressive but feels off... that’s your clue.
This isn’t about quitting everything. It’s about tuning into the truth you’ve been overriding.
You don’t need more accolades.
You need a life that feels like yours.
Let’s start building it.
Your coach,
Chris
P.S. I’m hosting a 1-hour Zoom session later this month called From Corner Office to Calling. If you're thinking about what's next or just wondering how to gain more time, meaning, and freedom, join me. I’ll share the biggest lessons from my own jump from C-level life to full professional and personal security. No fluff. Just the real talk most execs never get to have.
Want in? Just email me at chris@peoplebeforethings.co (not .com) with “Calling” and I’ll send a calendar poll.
