Dr. Jon Russell

A lesson I learned during my teenage years was from my band director in high school. He said, "Leaders don't take shortcuts. They put in the work." This simple message has stuck with me to this day.

During my lifetime, I've never met a great leader who cut corners, took shortcuts or stopped short of the lines. Maybe the reason is because great leaders understand there are no shortcuts to anyplace worth going.

People that model good character and display a high work ethic are less likely to look for shortcuts. Great leaders maintain a standard of going the distance... no matter what. They take ownership and work with the same intensity and focus.

Mickey Arthur, a World-class international Cricket coach was once asked- "What are some things you've noticed in the best of the best players..." He said, "Champions are self-driven to be the best and determined to follow great routines- technically, mentally, physically and tactically. Taking shortcuts simply doesn't pay off if you want to be a great cricketer."

English writer and poet, J.R.R. Tolkien said, "Shortcuts make long delays." Nothing could be closer to the truth.

Great leaders do not mind doing the extra work. They have the guts and grit to go for it.  Real leaders stand out by doing something radical- they take the long way even when it's trying and difficult. Why? Because shortcuts rarely lead to lasting success. Shortcuts may promise quick wins but they rarely go the distance.

When tempted, as a leader, to take a shortcut remember the following 9 things:

1- Shortcuts are tempting but dangerous

They offer speed without substance.

2- Growth happens in the process

The hard way builds what shortcuts can't- character, grit, and wisdom.

3- Trust can't be rushed

Real leadership influence is earned over time, not grabbed overnight.

4- Cut corners, lose credibility

Integrity requires consistency, not convenience. 

5- Leadership is about stewardship

You're not just leading tasks- you're shaping lives. That demands depth.

6- The journey is part of the calling

God develops leaders in the wilderness before releasing them into greater influence.

7- Quick success can become a quick fall

A strong foundation prevents collapse when the pressure rises.

8- There are no elevators- only stairs

Every step matters. Every lesson counts. Skip none of them. 

9- Take the long road- it's well with it 

It's slower- but it's sure. It leads to something that lasts.