Doing Less, But Better: Leadership Lessons from Naples
By: Charlotte Huger, CFP®
I just returned from a fantastic leadership conference in Naples, Florida—an energizing few days centered around The Essentialistand how its lessons can be applied to the way we lead.
The core message was simple but powerful: do less, but better.
In leadership, it’s easy to mistake activity for impact. We fill our calendars, juggle priorities, and spread ourselves thin across countless initiatives. But busyness is not the same as effectiveness. The real challenge—and the real opportunity—lies in stepping back, identifying what truly matters, and directing our energy where it will move the needle most.
This idea of essentialism resonated deeply with me, and I left Naples with a fresh perspective on how to cut through the noise and lead with greater intention.
Here are a few best practices that stood out:
Clarity over clutter. Success comes from identifying the one or two priorities that matter most—not trying to do everything at once. When we’re clear on what’s essential, we create focus and alignment for ourselves and our teams.
Protecting time. Every “yes” is also a “no.” By setting boundaries and removing distractions, we can create space for the work that truly drives impact. As leaders, it’s our responsibility to guard our own time—and help our teams do the same.
Leading by example. Focus is contagious. When leaders model discipline and intentionality, their teams gain permission to prioritize as well. It’s about creating a culture where depth is valued over breadth, and quality over quantity.
The conference was not just about learning new frameworks—it was about pausing to reflect on how we’re showing up as leaders. Too often, we get caught in the day-to-day and lose sight of the bigger picture. These few days were a reminder that leadership is not about doing it all—it’s about doing what matters most, and doing it well.
I’m grateful for the conversations, the insights, and the chance to rethink what it means to lead with purpose. My biggest takeaway?
When we focus on the essential, we create space for real impact.
I’m excited to bring these principles back to my team and put them into action in the months ahead.
