As a founder coach, I think about leadership and leadership styles a lot. One thing I often notice is how leaders, especially those heading companies, can gradually compromise their values in pursuit of higher goals. They might start as Ted Lasso, but more and more they end up like Walter White.
It’s easy to look at Ted Lasso, the incredibly hopeful, optimistic (maybe even naive) American leader of a British soccer club, and Walter White, the drug lord from Breaking Bad, as opposites. But reducing them to “Ted good, Walter bad” misses a crucial point. Their journeys and processes offer deeper insights.
Ted Lasso: Process Over Outcome
Ted Lasso’s leadership revolves around creating and nurturing a process. He emphasizes emotional, technical, and other forms of support, focusing on helping individuals be their best selves. Winning is not his main goal; it’s a happy side effect of a supportive environment and personal development. His influence is profoundly positive, fostering a great team and work atmosphere.
Ted’s philosophy is centered on the belief that a strong, supportive process leads to success. By prioritizing the well-being and growth of his team members, he creates an environment where everyone thrives. This, in turn, results in a successful soccer team and a fulfilling workplace. Ted’s leadership style highlights the importance of process, community, and personal development over mere outcomes. He doesn’t sacrifice his values for his goals—instead he creates an environment where both are supported.
Walter White: The Cost of the End Justifying the Means
Walter White, on the other hand, claims at every step of the way that his goal is to provide for his family. However, each choice he makes to maximize money for his family pulls him deeper into the drug trade. He equates leaving a large sum of money with providing for his family, but in the process, he destroys his relationships and, ultimately, his soul. His focus on the end goal of money leads him to sacrifice everything he truly values.
Walter’s journey is a cautionary tale about the dangers of prioritizing end goals over values and relationships. His initial intention to secure his family’s future becomes overshadowed by his descent into moral compromise and criminal activity. Breaking Bad is a brilliant and powerful reminder of the consequences of losing sight of one’s core values in the pursuit of success.
Real-Life Insights: Leading with Heart
I don’t know many real-life Walter Whites, but I do encounter people who mistakenly prioritize money, believing it will bring them what they want. This slow descent happens one decision at a time, and founders often end up compromising their true desires in the pursuit of financial gain.
One more weekend at work, one more trip that means you miss your child’s game or recital. Before long, your family no longer cares about your “sacrifices” for them. They’re just sad you never seem to want to spend time with them.
I spoke with a successful founder recently and asked him how he managed to avoid becoming consumed by his business empire. His response was enlightening: “The money is a side effect of doing the right thing.” This founder genuinely loves his team, suppliers, and customers, emphasizing that a happy, purposeful, joy-filled life naturally attracts financial success. You don’t need a big exit to fix everything when everything is already aligned and fulfilling.
Creating a Purposeful Leadership Journey
Does this resonate with you?
I’m hosting an invitation-only virtual roundtable on September 17th for founders to explore the concept of “the exit” and what lies beyond it. If you’re within two to three years of an exit, I’d love to invite you to join a small group of us live. Let’s discuss how to create a meaningful founder journey where financial success is a byproduct, not the end goal.
Reach out if this speaks to you
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