Sometimes, you have to be willing to get dirty in order to clean stuff up! This is true in power washing (see photos below 😅), and it’s true in our business and our lives.
For years, the dirt and grime builds up. It finds a home and it weathers everything that comes its way — holding firm to the surface.
The longer we allow the gunk to build up on our lives, careers, and leadership, the more work it will take to clean it off.
The longer we let negative people cling to us like barnacles, the tougher it will be to power wash them away.
The process of power washing can take a long time and be awfully dirty… but it’s worth it!
Just like these before/after photos of our patio, deck, and sidewalk that I recently cleaned after 25 years of gunk, our lives can have an equally shocking before and after feel. Because we don’t realize how much has built up over the years.
I was shocked by how much came off during the cleaning process, just like I was shocked by the negative buildup in my life and career before I started “power washing” my people and decisions on a regular basis.
The invitation is to do the hard and dirty job of power washing to clean up your life, career, and leadership — and then take steps to not allow that buildup to start all over again.
You will be amazed at how wonderful it feels to start anew!
Speaking Adventures
June was a month of both introspection and exciting new experiences. Father’s Day always brings out the emotional side of me, a beautiful reminder of the life I’m now fully embracing, surrounded by the people I love. It’s a “beautiful mess” of gratitude, and it set a reflective tone for a month that also included insightful conversations and the delightful discovery of a vibrant Midwestern city.
My travels took me to the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce Breakfast of Champions, and what a treat it was! I stayed at the beautiful Hotel Julien and explored the stunning Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, captivated by the city’s murals and even a functioning cable car.
The Wall Street Journal recently highlighted Dubuque as a must-see, and now I completely understand why. Everyone I met was incredibly welcoming, the city was spotless, and the businesses along the riverfront are clearly thriving!
I also had the pleasure of hosting Lynne Jensen-Nelson as a guest speaker in my Ambitious Speaker Collective group. Lynne, along with the incredibly talented Anne Bonney, joined me for a deep dive into running a successful speaking business. We shared stories and discussed key learning opportunities, and the thoughtful questions from our audience were fantastic.
I kept thinking how much I wished a resource like this had been available when I was starting out as a speaker 15 years ago!
If any of my upcoming speaking events are in your neck of the woods, maybe we can get together! Or if you want to be part of my presentation or have someone who needs to hear it, feel free to ask and I’ll see if I can get you in.
If you’re not already following me on LinkedIn, let’s connect. You might also enjoy subscribing to my YouTube channel, becoming friends on Facebook, or connecting on TikTok or Instagram. Join the conversation, and let’s keep this adventure going together.
This summer, don’t forget that the most profound changes begin with a willingness to tackle the tough spots head-on.
What “power washing” are you tackling in your world right now, or what area are you hoping to refresh? Share your thoughts – I’d love to hear from you!
Until next time,
Maisha ni safari
(Swahili… Life is a Safari)
Sincerely,
Steve Fredlund,
The Safari Dude
Life is an adventure. Make it epic.
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.