In my last newsletter I wrote about when I was in my 20’s and 30’s, I was working up the management ladder, I was ambitious and very determined to prove that I was more than capable, and it is fair to say this paid off, but I was very much in the mindset of making sure I had control, so even though I would have said that I had a growth mind-set, there were certain limiting beliefs which meant in certain situations I was more fixed than growth.

Looking back, the issue I struggled to transition away from thought that any success was down to my hard work and commitment, although I thought I was being a leader, I was entrenched in a managers mindset.

The quote I mentioned last week was;

Are you trying to the control outcomes, or are you empowering your team to create them?

Of course there are plenty of books out there covering leadership, but I went on a seminar once which was about TRUST, and the difference between POWER and CONTROL.

This really resonated with me and has stuck with me and has now defined my approach to leadership which apply daily. The key to it, is having the confidence to do it.

When I reached my 40’s it is fair to said the hard work I had put in in my earlier years was paying off, I was now part of the Senior Leadership Teams and heavily influencing the performance of the wider teams.

What I had learned, not only on the back of my progression in my career, but when trying to fix my habit of drinking alcohol on a nearly daily basis, is that the motivation for going alcohol-free is heavily linked to the principles of leadership.

So lets take a look at 5 key areas which resonate between the two;

1. Clarity of Vision and Purpose

Every leader knows the importance of having a clear “why.” Without it, it’s easy to drift or fall into reactive decision-making.
Going alcohol-free is powered by the same need for clarity. People who take this step often realize alcohol no longer aligns with the vision they have for their health, career, or relationships. By acting on that awareness, they’re exercising the same muscle leaders use to chart a course forward.

2. Self-Mastery Before Influence

You can’t effectively lead others until you first lead yourself.
The choice to live alcohol-free is an act of self-mastery. It means prioritizing long-term growth over short-term comfort, a discipline every strong leader needs. It’s about showing up consistently as the person you want to be, regardless of outside pressures.

3. Energy and Presence

Alcohol subtly drains energy and dulls focus. Leaders, however, need to be fully present: sharp in decision-making, emotionally attuned, and resilient under pressure.
When someone goes alcohol-free, they unlock deeper reserves of energy, better sleep, and stronger mental clarity. These aren’t just health benefits, they’re leadership advantages.

4. Resilience and Role Modelling

True leadership isn’t tested when things are easy, but when they’re hard. The alcohol-free journey is much the same: it requires resilience, the ability to handle stress without numbing or avoidance.
By choosing this path, individuals demonstrate courage and model healthier ways of handling pressure. That authenticity and strength ripple outward, inspiring others, just like great leadership.

5. Authenticity and Influence

At its core, leadership is about alignment between values and actions. People are drawn to leaders who live what they preach.
Going alcohol-free is often motivated by a desire to live in greater alignment with personal values. That congruence builds trust, in yourself and from those around you.

Can you relate the difference to your current status?

The Overlap is Clear

The motivation to go alcohol-free is not about restriction, but expansion: expanding clarity, energy, and purpose.
And that same motivation is what fuels impactful, authentic leadership.

For high performers, removing alcohol isn’t just a lifestyle choice, it’s a leadership decision.

I understand firsthand the challenges involved in pushing yourself for ensure the career has a purpose. At Phil Adderley Coaching, I help individuals not only achieve their goals but also overcome significant life obstacles through personalised coaching that addresses both mindfulness practices and employment challenges. My approach recognises that recovery requires holistic support, developing physical strength alongside mental resilience, rebuilding professional confidence, and establishing healthy routines that sustain long-term wellbeing.

I invite you to take that crucial first step toward positive change by booking a complimentary Zoom consultation. This initial meeting gives me the opportunity to understand your unique needs, challenges, and aspirations, allowing us to create a tailored coaching plan that addresses your specific circumstances. Whether you’re seeking to improve your performance, enhance your mindfulness practice, or overcome employment hurdles, I’m committed to supporting you throughout your journey. Send an email to phil.adderley.coaching@gmail.com today to schedule your free session and discover how we can work together toward meaningful transformation and lasting success.