Stop Creating an Exodus. Start Building a Legacy.

Years ago, as a Circulation Director, I faced a decision that would haunt me: an opportunity to travel to Africa with my parents. It was the adventure of a lifetime, a chance to create unforgettable memories with family. My response? "I don't have time."

Those four words reveal everything wrong with how we've come to view corporate America. I didn't say no because I didn't want to go. I said no because I felt uncomfortable asking for the time off. I said no because somewhere along the way, I had internalized a culture that prioritized presence over purpose, routine over life experiences.

Today, as I listen to entrepreneurs, coaches, and business leaders in summits, podcasts, and networking calls, I hear a common theme: the great escape from corporate America. Everyone seems to be running away, painting corporate life as a cage from which to break free. But here's the question that keeps nagging at me: Why are we creating a culture of runners instead of growers?

What is "Corporate America," Really?

Before we dive deeper, let's define what we're talking about. One Google search defines corporate America as "all public and private businesses that operate for a profit, from startups to Fortune 500 companies." Another calls it "a generic term referring primarily to major U.S. corporations, including, but not limited to, the Fortune 1000 Industrial and the Fortune 500 Service Companies."

But here's where it gets interesting: If you're a solopreneur who adds two or three employees and becomes an LLC, aren't you technically part of corporate America too? The lines are blurrier than we might think, suggesting that our real issue isn't with corporate structures but with the cultures we create within them.

From My Africa Moment to Your Leadership Opportunity

My missed Africa trip wasn't just about poor work-life balance. It was a symptom of a larger problem that still plagues many organizations today. People aren't really running from corporate America – they're running from:

• Lack of freedom to live fully while working meaningfully

• Lack of respect for their whole person, not just their work output

• Lack of recognition for their unique contributions

• The soul-crushing feeling of not being valued as a human being

The Culture of Running: A Symptom, Not a Solution

This mass exodus mentality has created a culture of runners. We're encouraging people to flee rather than fix, to start anew rather than improve what exists. But what if we could change that narrative?

From Runners to Growers: A Paradigm Shift

Instead of fostering a generation of runners, what if we focused on creating a culture of growers? People who see potential in their roles and companies, who want to develop themselves and their organizations simultaneously?

This shift requires changes from both employees and leaders:

1. For Employees: Develop the confidence I wish I had when that Africa opportunity arose. Learn to advocate for your needs and communicate effectively about work-life integration.

2. For Leaders: Create an environment where employees never have to choose between meaningful life experiences and professional growth.

The Leader's Role in Transforming Corporate Culture

CEOs, VPs, and leaders at all levels, this is our call to action. Here's how we create change:

1. Prioritize Communication: Foster open dialogues about work-life integration. Make it clear that asking for time off for significant life experiences isn't just acceptable – it's encouraged.

2. Cultivate a Family Spirit: Build a culture where team members feel supported in pursuing both professional excellence and personal fulfillment.

3. Lead by Example: Share your own stories of work-life integration. Show your team that success doesn't require sacrifice of life's meaningful moments.

4. Encourage Personal Growth: Recognize that your employees are whole people with dreams, families, and bucket lists. Support their personal goals as enthusiastically as their professional ones.

5. Invest in Leadership Development: Use tools and assessments to continuously improve your leadership approach and create an environment where everyone thrives.

A Personal Challenge for 2025

As we look toward 2025, I challenge you – and myself – to be part of the solution. Instead of contributing to the "escape from corporate America" narrative, let's create organizations people want to run toward. Whether you're leading a Fortune 500 company or a small startup, you have the power to create this change.

If I could go back to that moment when I was offered the Africa trip, I would make a different choice. But more importantly, I would want to be part of creating a workplace culture where no one feels they have to make that choice at all.

Are you ready to be part of this transformation? Ready to create a work culture that nurtures growth rather than flight? Let's connect and make 2025 the year we redefine what it means to be part of corporate America – where success is measured not just in profits, but in the thriving of every team member.

Are you ready to lead the change? Grab a call, let’s connect and talk about Energy Leadership Assessment and creating an unstoppable 2025 plan.   https://link.leaptoyoursuccess.com/widget/bookings/ltsfasttrack

 Be part of the change and share your insights on my podcast  http://go.leaptoyoursuccess.com/podcast 

After all, the best leaders don't create followers who run away. They create new leaders who stay and grow.

So, answer … Are you ready to lead the change?