“Encourage one another and build each other up.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)
Happy Friday, Brew Nation!
As we celebrate the 249th birthday of our great nation this Independence Day, I’ve been reflecting on more than just fireworks, golf cart parades, or hot dogs on the Traeger. I’ve been thinking about the leadership lessons embedded in our history—and how they apply to every one of us today.
This edition of the Champions Brew is about gratitude, not just for our freedoms, but for the foundational leadership principles modeled by those who came before us. As we approach the milestone of our nation’s 250th year, it’s the perfect moment to reflect, grow, and step boldly into the kind of impact we’re called to make.
1. I’m Grateful for the Courage to Choose Uncommon
On July 4, 1776, the signers of the Declaration of Independence weren’t attending a party—they were committing an audacious act of defiance. They risked everything by choosing an uncommon path.
Their So What was clear—oppression and injustice.
Their Now What—declare independence.
Their So That—a future where freedom, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness were unalienable rights.
As leaders, we often face our own crossroads. Will we choose the comfort of the status quo, or the challenge of change? The Founders’ courage reminds us: choosing the uncommon may cost us something, but it can also change the world.
2. I’m Grateful for the Power of a Clear Vision
The Declaration wasn’t just a protest—it was a statement of purpose. That clarity—the WHYpower—sustained a fragile nation through years of adversity.
Great leaders today still need that clarity. A compelling vision brings direction, unity, and resolve. Without it, people drift. With it, they endure.
What’s your clear vision? What future are you calling others to build?
3. I’m Grateful for the “Unseen Work” that Fuels Growth
Fireworks are visible. Impact is often not.
The true work of independence wasn’t in the declarations or celebrations—it was in the cold winters at Valley Forge, the messy compromises of the Constitution, and the quiet grit of ordinary citizens.
Leadership today is no different. Just like our Founders’ sacrifices were made in silence and resolve, modern leadership is shaped in the quiet acts that few notice—like preparing your notes before a tough one-on-one conversation, resisting the urge to shortcut a difficult decision, or staying late to support a team member who’s struggling. These daily, often unnoticed choices define your credibility more than any stage or spotlight ever could. We celebrate wins publicly, but the daily disciplines—tough conversations, personal reflection, showing up when it’s hard—these are what build real growth.
Leadership is forged in the unseen.
4. I’m Grateful for the Symbolism of Core Values
Our flag is more than fabric. It’s a daily reminder of what we’re called to live out as leaders. In modern leadership, unity means bringing people together even when opinions differ. Sacrifice looks like putting others first or taking responsibility for hard calls. Purity might mean staying aligned to mission without compromise, and justice means standing up for what’s right, even when it’s not popular. a visual anchor:
- The stars for unity
- The red for sacrifice
- The white for purity
- The blue for justice
Symbols matter. They grounded us. They represent the values we commit to.
As leaders, what values define your leadership “flag”? Do you lead with truth and grace? With consistency and compassion?
Great leadership is built on unwavering core values, just like great nations.
5. I’m Grateful for Continuous Learning
In the spirit of humility (and some good bar trivia), here are five fun facts I recently discovered:
- The first Declaration copies were printed by John Dunlap—about 200 in total. Only 26 still exist today.
- There were 86 changes made to Jefferson’s original draft.
- Benjamin Franklin was 70 when he signed; Edward Rutledge was just 26.
- There’s something written on the back of the Declaration—but not a treasure map! It reads: “Original Declaration of Independence dated 4th July 1776.”
- John Hancock’s signature is the largest—and that’s why “give me your John Hancock” became a thing.
Leadership means staying curious. Keep learning. Keep asking questions. Keep growing.
Being effective as a leader means staying grounded in purpose, committed to growth, and willing to lead with vision, values, and service. That’s why I believe great leaders don’t just look back in gratitude—they move forward with intentionality.
At Growing Champions, we help leaders develop courageous clarity, daily discipline, and unwavering consistency—because legacy isn’t accidental. It’s built, one decision at a time. In purpose, committed to growth, and willing to lead with vision, values, and service. That’s why I believe great leaders don’t just look back in gratitude—they move forward with intentionality. At Growing Champions, we help leaders develop courageous clarity, daily discipline, and unwavering consistency—because legacy isn’t accidental. It’s built, one decision at a time.
👉 Want to align your leadership with uncommon courage and clear vision? 📩 Email me at coachjohngallagher@gmail.com with the word “FREEDOM” in the subject line, and I’ll send you the WHYpower Framework Tool designed to help you define your mission and ignite change.
Quote of the Week
“The price of greatness is responsibility.” – Winston Churchill
This quote reinforces everything we’ve reflected on this Independence Day week. True greatness—whether in nations or in personal leadership—requires us to carry the weight of our choices, actions, and example. Leadership doesn’t happen by chance; it’s built one intentional act at a time, often in the unseen moments. Let this be a reminder that your daily leadership matters, even when no one is watching. “The price of greatness is responsibility.” – Winston Churchill
What You Need to Do
Your Call to Action: Lead Gratefully
This weekend, ask yourself:
- Where in my life or leadership do I need to choose the uncommon path?
- What is the vision I’m calling others toward?
- Am I showing up consistently in the unseen moments?
- What values are guiding my leadership decisions?
- Where do I need to keep learning?
Then take action. Reflect. Adjust. Celebrate.
And as you enjoy the fireworks and festivities, remember: the freedom we celebrate was built on sacrifice, conviction, and consistent courage. Let your leadership reflect the same.
If this Brew encouraged you, share it with a fellow leader, friend, or teammate, and subscribe. Let’s grow Brew Nation together! ☕💪
Until next time — Lead with Gratitude. Serve with Purpose. And Keep Growing, Champions! 💪
P.S. Want to share your story of courage and grace on The Uncommon Leader Podcast? Email me and let’s connect!
