What’s in Your Hand

In the latest episode of The Wonder of WOOO podcast, hosts Darryl Zavodny and Ed Howie explore a transformational question for leaders and entrepreneurs: What’s in your hand? This simple yet profound concept challenges us to focus on the resources, opportunities, and talents we already have and to make the most of them—today. It’s a powerful lesson in stewardship that can help you unlock new levels of personal and professional growth.

What Does “What’s in Your Hand” Mean?

At its core, stewardship means doing all you can with what you have today. This mindset encourages leaders to embrace their current reality, rather than being paralyzed by regrets about the past or anxieties about the future.

For Ed, this principle became deeply personal 17 years ago when he decided to stop drinking. Alcohol had become a crutch for dealing with anxiety, but removing it from his life gave him the clarity to focus on what truly mattered. This pivotal moment underscored a universal truth: when we remove the obstacles that hold us back, we unlock our ability to fully engage with the present.

Overcoming Obstacles: What’s Holding You Back?

Daryl and Ed invite listeners to reflect on their own challenges. Is there something in your life—fear, perfectionism, or even a rigid mindset—that’s preventing you from embracing your potential? Often, we don’t realize that we’re holding on to things too tightly, whether it’s control over our business or outdated habits.

Taking a moment to pause and evaluate what might be inhibiting your progress is the first step toward meaningful change. Remember, identifying these obstacles isn’t about shame—it’s about creating space for growth.

The Leader’s Role in Stewardship

Stewardship isn’t just about personal growth; it’s also about how leaders manage their businesses and teams. Here are three actionable ways to apply stewardship in your leadership:

1. Take Stock of What You Have
   What resources are already at your disposal? This could be your team’s unique talents, your current financial standing, or even tools and processes you haven’t fully leveraged. Recognizing what you have today is essential to using it well.
2. Empower Your People
   Great leaders understand that stewardship includes enabling their teams to succeed. Equip your staff with the tools, authority, and trust to make decisions that align with your vision.
3. Strive for Progress, Not Perfection
   Leadership is a long game. You won’t have 100% capacity every day, and that’s okay. If you’re at 60% one day, give 100% of that 60%. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about staying intentional and consistent.

Focus on Today

One of the most liberating lessons from this episode is the power of focusing on today. You can’t change the past or predict the future, but you can make the most of the present moment. This mindset can shift your energy from worrying about what’s next to taking meaningful action now.

Ed shared a simple yet effective practice: at the start of each day, identify five key tasks you need to accomplish. Writing them down creates focus and accountability. It’s a small but powerful way to steward your time and energy.

Wooo-ing Yourself First

Ed and Daryl emphasize a critical yet often overlooked point: you can’t lead others well if you’re not taking care of yourself. Stewardship starts with self-awareness and self-compassion. By prioritizing your mental, emotional, and physical well-being, you position yourself to lead with clarity and empathy.

Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s foundational. When you’re at your best, you can better serve your team, customers, and community.

Final Takeaway: What’s in Your Hand?

Every day, you’re given resources, opportunities, and talents—what you hold in your hand. The key is recognizing these gifts and stewarding them with intentionality. Whether it’s a small adjustment to your leadership style or a bold step toward personal growth, your ability to harness what you already have will shape your success.

Ask yourself: What’s in my hand today? Then, focus on using it to its fullest potential.

For more inspiring insights and practical advice, listen to the full episode of The Wonder of WOOO. Learn how to embrace stewardship as a tool to grow yourself, your business, and the lives of those you serve.