The 17% That Define You:
How to Lead When It Matters Most (Part 1)
We’ve all been there.
That big project. That crucial conversation. That moment when you realize you’ve been running on fumes. You’ve given your all, but maybe your exercise routine has slipped, sleep feels like a luxury, and your own well-being has slipped to the bottom of the list.
If this sounds familiar, consider this a friendly, urgent nudge. You’re standing at a crossroads where one wrong turn can risk your hard-earned reputation, your leadership influence, and your potential.
Here’s the fascinating truth from the research: 83% of the time, we’re amazing. We manage our tasks and relationships with skill and grace. But it’s the other 17% of moments—the stressful, challenging, and emotionally charged interactions—that truly define our leadership. These moments test our emotional intelligence and reveal who we are at our core.
The good news? You can armor yourself for these moments.
Your Game-Changer Awaits
In my work coaching leaders to “play big,” I see it every day: personal self-management is the ultimate game changer. It’s the difference between a leader who crumbles under pressure and one who rises to the occasion.
You have worked too hard to let a single 17% moment undo months of dedication and damage precious relationships.
This is just the beginning. In the coming weeks, I’ll share more of this emotional body armor to help you sustain your success. For now, start with these steps. Be kind to yourself, and lead with intention.
If this resonated with you—or if you know a fellow leader who’s navigating their own 17% moments—I hope you’ll hit the share button. You never know whose leadership journey you might positively impact.
Here’s to your strength and success,
–Steve
As a master storyteller, Steve has unparalleled ability to communicate dynamic business and leadership truths through stories, anecdotes and humor. Harness the power of the “number one” predictor of professional success, impact, leadership, high performance and sustainable relationships in business and life. Steve’s highest rated keynote presentation.
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“The purpose of Leadership Quest is to help professionals develop their personal leadership, vision and emotional intelligence. Everyday I strive to help leaders and teams achieve their desired goals in sales productivity, leadership, time maximization, and life-balance. ”
About the Author
Steve Gutzler is the President of Leadership Quest, a premier leadership development company based in Scottsdale. As a dynamic and highly sought-after speaker, Steve has delivered over 2,500 impactful presentations to renowned organizations such as Microsoft, Starbucks, the Seattle Seahawks, Spotify, Boeing, Cisco, Starwood Hotels, Ritz-Carlton, and the U.S. Department of Commerce.
A published author and thought leader on leadership and emotional intelligence, Steve lives near Scottsdale with his wife, Julie. Together, they cherish time spent with their three adult children and six grandchildren.
