Overthinking feels responsible, but preparation actually is.
If you just analyze, then analyze again, whatever you’re working on will be perfect. The problem is that most work is like art; it’s hard to know when the painting is done. What overthinking tries to do is eliminate discomfort before having to do the thing. But, preparation accepts discomfort and gets ready to lead anyway.
One keeps you busy as a leader, the other makes you useful. If you remember nothing else from today, let it be this:
Your team doesn’t experience your intentions. They experience the outcome of your preparation.
If you have struggled to tell the difference between preparing and overthinking, this week is for you.
Use your gifts,
John Eades
Founder of LearnLoft | The Sales Infrastructure
P.S. My friends Dan Casey and Griffin Brand released a new book titled, Bring Your Own Pencil. They share stories of Bill Walsh and examples of his preparation from the book on this week’s podcast. Enjoy!
This Week’s Poll Question
Anyone who answers this poll is entered to win a free copy of the Optimistic Outlook!
How would your team describe your preparation before a 1-1, meeting, or presentation?
Last week’s results:
Which leadership challenge feels heaviest right now? (15,600 subscribers)
Carrying too much myself (24%)
Getting others to take ownership (38%)
Making the right decisions (20%)
Setting clear direction (16%)
Other (2%)
The Difficult Conversations Episode (Podcast)
In this episode of The John Eades Podcast, I sit down with Dan Casey and Griffin Brand, co-authors of Bring Your Own Pencil.
At its core, this conversation is about preparation, discipline, and respect. Not as buzzwords, but as daily practices that quietly separate professionals from amateurs. Dan and Griffin share stories and principles behind the idea of "bringing your own pencil," the mindset of taking ownership before you're asked, and why leaders who prepare consistently earn trust faster and sustain credibility longer.
This is a practical conversation for leaders who care about standards, growth, and doing the work before the spotlight ever turns on.
The Optimistic Outlook (Newsletter)
The Optimistic Outlook is a daily newsletter designed to remind you to focus on the bright side, one day at a time. Join 1300+ leaders who are already improving their Optimistic Outlook.
How to Develop Leaders (Whitepaper)
Over the years, we’ve noticed a pattern. Organizations don’t need more leadership content. They need leaders who actually apply what they’ve learned.
That insight led to a new guide, How to Develop Leaders in 2026. It’s less about what should be in a program and more about how leaders actually develop. If leadership development is part of your role, this one’s for you.
Here Are Some Ways We Could Partner:
Proven Programs to Help Employees Develop Leadership Skills: Bring the Accelerate Leadership Program or Catalyst for Growth Program in-house for a customized experience for your team members. Programs include virtual or in-person instructor-led training, a Leadership Growth Plan, and group coaching to ensure real-world mastery.
One-on-One Executive Coaching: Work 1-on-1 with me or one of our certified coaches to achieve your goals, strengthen critical skills, and address your most pressing challenges. This 6-month program focuses on mindset and execution for tangible, lasting outcomes. Show me more
The Engaged and Inspired Audience: John is now booking 2026. John’s two new keynotes, “The Teamwork Advantage” and “Your Next Level of Leadership,” have been a hit for organizations. Hit reply on this note, or check out some of our recent talks here.
