Creativity, Grit, and Faith
5 Lessons From 5 Men Who Inspire Me
Happy Friday!
So who do you think you are? It’s a question everyone should ask. We live in a time of immense societal hubris — this foul, self-centered ideology that fails to value building your character. Society instead tells us we should be whoever we want to be.
Whatever we feel like.
Not today.
But here’s the thing… to know your shortcomings is to know that you need help - to know that, in fact, you aren’t enough, and that’s ok.
I was digging through my old Apple notes as I was writing this morning and I found this old list of “men I want to be like.” These fellows embody qualities I strive to cultivate in my own life. Through their example, I hope to become a better version of myself and help others to do the same.
Here they are:
1. Bishop Barron: Intellect and Faith
Bishop Robert Barron is a stalwart of thoughtful, measured, and deep faith. His ability to articulate the richness of Catholic theology while engaging with contemporary culture is remarkable. Bishop Barron’s teachings remind me that faith and reason and more importantly that faith and empathy are not mutually exclusive. (A lesson the evangelical church desperately needs.)
2. Father Roderick: Faith and Joy
Father Roderick Vonhögen embodies a joyful approach to faith and creativity that is both infectious and inspiring. (He’s also my coach & mentor!) Father Roderick’s joyful demeanor and passion for all things geek while sharing his faith encourage me to integrate my faith with the rest of my passions and to find joy where I can.
3. Chip Gaines: Family and Work Ethic
Chip Gaines, known for his work on "Fixer Upper," exemplifies the balance between a strong family life and a dedicated work ethic. His commitment to a simple yet fun approach to his family and his Texas-sized work ethic serve as a model for how to prioritize what really matters. Chip motivates me to find the work I love and joyfully yet relentlessly execute that work. He proves this can be done while ensuring that family remains at the center of life.
4. Andy Stanley: Christian Leadership
Yes, I know it might be strange that the 1st two men I highlighted are catholic even though I’m not - so this one’s for my protestants. My college pastor was Andy Stanley. His approach to Christian leadership is practical and beautifully simple. His emphasis on clarity, vision, and practical application of biblical principles has shaped my understanding of effective leadership within a Christian context. Andy taught me to lead with integrity, clarity, and a deep sense of purpose. I don’t always get it right, but he paved that path for us to follow.
5. Casey Neistat: Creativity, Grit, and Self-Respect
Casey Neistat. This guy. His relentless pursuit of creative fulfilment coupled with his no-nonsense attitude, exemplifies what it means to work hard and stick to your values as a creator. Casey’s story reminds me that creativity requires perseverance and that self-respect is crucial in the pursuit of one’s goals. His work ethic and creative discipline push me to embrace my creative endeavors with grit.
Reflecting on these men, I see a roadmap for my own growth. Each embodies qualities I deeply respect and wish to develop within myself.
MTFBWY