The holiday season is here—a time for joy, reflection, and connection.
But let’s be honest, it’s also when we’re tempted to do the “right thing.” Maybe it’s saying yes to every event and burning out, or putting everyone else’s needs ahead of your own.
This year, let’s flip the script.
Embrace boundaries, prioritize your well-being, and focus on what truly matters. Doing the “unright thing” for yourself might just be the best gift you can give to those around you.
Wishing you and your family Happy Holidays!

Event season has begun to slow down with the holiday season in full swing. After a busy 2024, I welcome the bit of rest.
In November, I spoke to several groups about the “Unright Thing” and “The Right Peeps in Your Jeep” – two of my most popular talks.
I mostly stayed within Minnesota this month, which allowed for more time at home, which included a 14-hour day of putting together an Ikea desk for my office. These projects never seem to get any easier.
2025 will be here before we know it!


What you expect from life is what you pursue in life which becomes what you experience in life which reinforces what you expect from life.
Most of us expect life to be “good” or “fine”. It is ordinary. and for many of us that is absolutely fine
But some of long for the extraordinary — in our life, in our work, or in our leadership. We are hungry for breakthrough; to just get a taste of the extraordinary. But we don’t know how to break through.
We do everything right; we know the right people; we climb the right ladder. Yet we remain longing.
Breakthrough starts with recognizing that life is an adventure — it’s our adventure — it’s our story.

Plans are coming together quickly for the next safari I will be leading. In June of 2025, we will be headed to South Africa for a full week of adventure!
I have a mailing list for those who have expressed some interest, so if you are on that list already, no need to respond. However, if you want to get on that list, just reply to this email to learn more.
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Let’s turn those big dreams into bold action! Whether it’s a keynote, workshop, or one-on-one session, I’m here to help you crush your goals. I am already booking events into August of 2025, so reach out today and let’s make it happen!
Until next time,
Maisha ni safari
(Swahili… Life is a Safari)
Sincerely,
Steve Fredlund,
The Safari Dude
Life is an adventure. Make it epic.

Shoot me an email, connect on LinkedIn, subscribe on YouTube, consider coaching, find me at a conference, or whatever makes sense in your world.
About The Author
Steve Fredlund is an award-winning keynote speaker, two-time TEDx presenter, and bestselling author of Do the Unright Thing: Memoir of a People Pleaser. After decades as an actuary, executive, entrepreneur, and nonprofit founder—including leading humanitarian efforts in East Africa—Steve discovered that doing everything “right” doesn’t always lead to fulfillment or impact.
Drawing from that journey, he developed The Courage Advantage™ philosophy—centered on the everyday courage to move beyond expectation, lead with authenticity, and live in alignment with what truly matters. Through his engaging stories, humor, and practical insights, Steve inspires audiences to find greater clarity, connection, and fulfillment in both life and leadership.