Character is Fate

By Ali Lalieu

August 2024

I recently had the privilege of hearing a keynote address from the CEO of a large construction business here in Australia. Inspiring a hall full of aspirational year nine leaders, Brook Monahan shared a number of Guiding Principles that have shaped his life, and his leadership.

As I sat there listening to Brook, I felt called to capture these Guiding Principles in a blog, so we can all share in the inherent wisdom of his words.

Three (3) simple words sum up his message: “Character is fate”.

Dr Brené Brown might say the same thing in another three (3) words: “Who We Are Is How We Lead”.

Brook told many stories throughout his keynote, one of which being his childhood experience in middle class Australia. A hard working background with few privileges, but tremendous messages around family values, and the greatest gift his parents ever gave him, a set of Guiding Principles to live into each day.

Every one of these principles speaks to character, integrity (doing the right thing when no-one is looking) and effort.

There is a compounding effect that happens when we consistently and reliable go above and beyond in small ways, each and every day.

Guiding Principle One:

Understand yourself, your strengths and your weaknesses, and learn to feel comfortable in the vulnerable experience of leaning into your weaknesses. Vulnerability is the birthplace of connection and belonging, courage and joy.

Guiding Principle Two:

Leadership isn’t a prize. It’s about the way we show up and serve our people, our communities. Stay humble and focused on ways you can help other people who have less privilege. Brook has lived into a commitment to make a difference at Emmanual City Mission. Leaders have a responsibility to live into purpose. 

Guiding Principle Three:

Effort matters. It’s the one percenters that continue to make deposits in our character. Doing the right thing when no-one is looking (aka Integrity), consistently and reliably. Be prepared to work and go above and beyond.

Guiding Principle Four:

You have choice to respond (rather than react) to life’s challenges. This is the practice of emotional intelligence.

Guiding Principle Five:

Don’t be concerned with the cards you are dealt in life. Every person has a unique journey – own your own cards and make the most of your hand. Realise your own potential ~ it’s the greatest waste not to reach it.

Guiding Principle Six:

Be reliable. Always. You are bound by your word. Follow through on every promise or commitment, no matter how small. No excuses ~ clean up and reset when you need to apologise for your actions. People will follow dependable people.

Guiding Principle Six:

Be aware of the difference between humility and ego. How you go about your interactions with each other defines you as a person. Lean in to vulnerability ~ there’s no need to create a perception of perfection.

Guiding Principle Seven:

Curiosity is the skill of the future. Become an insatiable reader and lifelong learner.

A good life is earned on a daily basis. Good leadership is earned on a daily basis.

These seven Guiding Principles are motivational, and provide a roadmap to inspired leadership.

Cheers, Ali xo