Plus, the best moisture-wicking gear for summer.
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 | | In today's edition, Joe shares: - How to Grow as a Leader
- Summer Exercise Tips
- How to Race with Injuries
| | | | Spartans!
It might surprise some people that I don't fly first class.
In fact, I've passed my own employees in the front of the plane while making my way to the back.
I don't mind that others enjoy a lie-flat seat. Who wouldn't?
But for me, being a leader isn't about the perks; it's about setting the example.
The truth is, leadership isn't the glamorous title people think it is. It's lonely. There's very little oxygen at the top of the mountain. Spectators question your decisions. You're expected to win and get criticized when you lose.
Being a leader means eating last, showing up early, and leaving late.
Remember the story of Lycurgus, the leader of ancient Sparta?
It goes like this: Lycurgus demanded hard work from his citizens, and they grumbled about it. So he invited one "complainer" to live with him. When the complainer saw that Lycurgus lived exactly as he asked others to live, the message spread and respect for Lycurgus grew.
A good leader must walk the walk.
You don't have to be an owner of a company to do this. Maybe you lead your family, your department at work, your Spartan training group, or your local community.
Before I go on, I should admit that I haven't always been a great leader.
But if you're on the same journey as me to become one, here are some resources that have helped me grow.
In "Leaders Eat Last" by Simon Sinek, it's clear that true leadership is about putting others first. Leaders create environments where their people feel safe and valued, which in turn inspires loyalty and hard work. It's about sacrifice and service, not power and prestige.
Jocko Willink and Leif Babin in "Extreme Ownership" stress the importance of taking full responsibility for everything in your world. No excuses, no blaming others. If your team fails, it's on you. This extreme accountability fosters a culture of ownership and continuous improvement.
Brené Brown in "Dare to Lead" talks about vulnerability as a critical component of strong leadership. Being open, showing your human side, and admitting mistakes build trust and connection within your team. It's about leading with empathy and courage.
John C. Maxwell's "The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership" emphasizes that leadership is about influence — nothing more, nothing less. Your ability to influence and inspire your team determines your effectiveness as a leader. This is earned through integrity, dedication, and consistency.
Finally, "Good to Great" by Jim Collins shows that great leaders possess a paradoxical blend of personal humility and professional will. They are ambitious first and foremost for the cause, the company, the work—not themselves—and they have the will to do whatever it takes to make good on that ambition.
Leadership is about service and sacrifice. It's not about your own glory — it's about lifting others up.
Let's talk about leadership. Email me at thehardway@spartan.com with your stories and questions.
Here's to The Hard Way!
Joe | | | BEAT THE HEAT | With heat waves affecting much of the country this week, prepare yourself for training and racing outside with these top tips.
Clothing Matters
Sweat-wicking athletic clothing is designed to allow your skin to cool, unlike cotton which keeps heat in. You'll find summer-friendly gear in Spartan's Performance Apparel Collection.
Run Early
Set your alarm and get out while it's still cool. Even better — find a shady route so you can keep running for longer.
Drink Cold Water
It goes without saying that you need to stay super hydrated before, during, and after your activity. And if you're tempted to pour water over your head, don't. Drinking cold water is a more effective way to cool down.
Know The Warning Signs
Dizziness, nausea, headache, and a fast, weak pulse are all signs of heat-related illness. If you see someone struggling, get them out of the heat, ASAP. | | | | You Ask, Joe Answers | Q: Hey Joe, I'm a 63 year-old grandfather of three. I have shoulder and knee issues that prevent me from doing most of the obstacles in the Spartan race. What are your thoughts?
- David L.
A: Hey David, You are among many who ask me if it's possible to race with physical limitations. The answer is YES! Don't stop moving. If you've got leg issues, focus on pulling and pushing movements. If you can't do pull-ups, run. Show up to a race with whatever you've got, and I guarantee there will be people to support you. In the meantime, work on fixing the issue as best you can through home and physical therapies.
Aroo!
Question for Joe? Want to tell him what you think of The Hard Way? Email him at thehardway@spartan.com. | | | | They Said It | | "Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation, there is sure to be failure." | | – Confucius | | | BREAK THE WORLD JUMPING JACKS RECORD |  | Ready to make history, Spartans? It's time to gear up and break the World Jumping Jacks Record on July 12.
In honor of "The Godfather of Fitness" Jack LaLanne and to celebrate fitness icon Elaine LaLanne's 98th birthday, thousands of Spartans worldwide will unite to smash the record for "Most People Performing Jumping Jacks Simultaneously".
Join the "Jack LaLanne Jumping Jacks Challenge" on July 12 at 1 pm PST. Over 5,000 fitness enthusiasts will crush 98 Jumping Jacks together to raise funds for the National Fitness Foundation.
This is a free virtual event and for those in LA, you can participate in person at the LA Convention Center. Reserve your spot and find more details here. | | | | | Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up here. | | | WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THIS NEWSLETTER? | | | | | |
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